Childhood obesity is a hot topic right now and that has made me think about the snacks I’m giving my kids, especially cheese. Can you recommend an alternative?
A: I commend your concern for your family’s diet. It’s a worthwhile effort and will ensure one less barrier to your kids developing to their full potential.
Some parents might be tempted to cut out snacking of certain foods altogether, but the truth is kids need snacks to meet their energy needs for growth. We need to do more than simply count calories; we need to make each calorie count more. Choosing nutrient rich foods like low-fat and fat-free dairy, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables are the very best way to build a healthful diet.
Snacks are a time to address the vitamins and minerals most kids are missing such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamin E, and fiber.
You can’t go wrong with snacks that contain whole grains, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat yogurt, milk or cheese. Whole grains, fruits and veggies will help kids get the fiber they are lacking. Nuts are a wonderful source of Vitamin E which studies show improves heart health. And dairy’s unique vitamin and mineral package contains calcium, potassium, and magnesium to help build and protect strong bones to last a lifetime.
Since cheese is one of America’s most beloved foods, second only to chocolate, as a Registered Dietitian and mom, I say keep it in your snack line-up as a nutrient-packed food your kids will enjoy eating. For less than 100 calories per serving, you get an amazing amount of nutrition that actually tastes great!
Portion is key, so consider individually wrapped snack cheeses like mozzarella string cheese, 1 ounce portions of Colby jack, or 4-6 cubes of low-fat Cheddar. To cut cost, it’s easy to cut portions from a block of cheese. Pair your delicious cheese with a juicy fresh fruit or crunchy raw vegetable or whole-grain cracker to create “mini meal”.
For snack time or meal time, keep reaching for nutrient-rich foods first. It’s the best way to ensure healthy diets, healthy kids and healthy families!
Mickela MItchel, MS, RD, LD
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