Wonder Meals: Super Ideas For Getting Kids To Embrace Super Foods

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By mia bolaris-forget

Kids, especially little boys are into super powers and super heroes…but when it comes to super foods, not so much. But, a small reminder moms and dads…super eating strategies begin at home and right from the start. Here are some delicious “musts” to include in your child’s diet.

1. Beans and Legumes: Fabulously fiber-rich they help balance blood sugar and ward off childhood obesity. In addition they are known for extending life span and lowering risks and rates of cancer, diabetes, and other diseases. But, it’s not likely that your little one will eagerly embrace a bowl of these. Instead its best to add them to some of their favourites. Consider adding one of a variety of beans or a mixture of each into a soft or hard taco shell and topping with sour cream, guacamole and shredded cheese. Another option….boiling and mashing and adding them to some kiddie favourites such as burgers and meatballs.

2. Blueberries: Berries of all kinds are deliciously healthful,“sweet” treats. Plentiful in polyphenol antioxidants they are known for helping strengthen blood vessels and reducing inflammation, as well as being essential for brain health. In addition they are dynamic in keeping some genetic tendencies, such as cancer at bay. Can’t get your child to enjoy a bowl of berries. Add them to a yummy smoothie along with yogurt and whey protein, or make a jam out of them using honey instead of sugar and spreading onto sandwiches or layering between organic, home-made oatmeal cookies.

3. Spinach: Dark leafy green are a natural gift of antioxidants including lutein which boosts vision. Spinach is also high in carotenoid antioxidants that guard against sun damage and increase immune function; as well as offering vitamins K and magnesium essential for bone health. Add pureed greens to pasta sauce as a spaghetti topper or use on mini pizzas or, along with beans add to burgers and meatballs.

4. Walnuts: Packed with an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, these tasty treats aid brain development, immune-system function and cardiovascular health. Their abundance of melatonin also makes for a more peaceful and restful sleep and may guard against cancer. Make them kid friends by adding to PB & J sandwiches, if your child is not allergic, to homemade cakes and cookies, or grind in a coffee mill along with flaxseeds and raisins, roll into balls, and coat with natural coconut flakes.

Long Island Family Life & Parenting Articles > Wonder Meals: Super Ideas For Getting Kids To Embrace Super Foods