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Childhood Nutrition: Building Healthy Eating Habits

Snacking and Portion Control for Kids

Snacking for Kids

Snacking is an important part of a child's diet, but it's important to make sure that snacks are healthy and portion-controlled. One of the key things to keep in mind is that snacks should be treated as a mini-meal, and should contain a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. This will help to keep your child feeling full and satisfied until their next meal.

Portion Control

When it comes to portion control, it's important to pay attention to serving sizes. A good rule of thumb is to offer snacks that are around 100-200 calories, depending on your child's age and activity level. You can also use visual cues to help with portion control, such as offering snacks in small bowls or cups instead of letting your child eat straight from the package.

Choosing Nutrient-Dense Snacks

It's also important to choose snacks that are nutrient-dense and provide health benefits. Some great options include:

  • Fresh fruit
  • Raw veggies with hummus or guacamole
  • Whole-grain crackers with cheese or nut butter
  • Yogurt with berries and granola

Avoid snacks that are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, such as candy, chips, and processed snacks.

Timing of Snacks

Finally, it's important to pay attention to the timing of snacks. Try to space snacks out by at least 2-3 hours between meals, and avoid offering them too close to mealtime.

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Vitamins and Minerals for Children

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