8 Healthy Snacks for Day Camp
Summer is finally here, and your kids couldn’t be more excited! As they head off to day camp, make sure you pack healthy snacks in their lunch box. Whether it’s sports, art, music or any other type of camp, healthy snacks will give them the energy they need for their day. Here are eight healthy snack ideas for their lunch box.
#1: Say cheese! The healthy snack kids love.
Serve cheese cubes, cheese strings, or cheese twists. White, yellow, marbled. Mozzarella, cheddar, Monterrey Jack, Swiss . . . There are so many options to choose from! Furthermore, cheese is rich in calcium and an excellent source of protein and vitamin B12.
Did you know?
Milk products like cheese are beneficial for your oral health. The bioactive peptides and calcium in milk are good for your teeth. In fact, they protect tooth enamel and help fight cavities and gum disease. So, say cheese and show off that beautiful smile!
#2: Up your healthy snack game with trail mix.
Trail mix is easy to prepare. And every batch can be different! As such, you can tailor your recipe to your kids’ preferences. Ingredients suggestions: dried fruits (cherries, cranberries, raisins), grains (sunflower, pumpkin), granola, cereal, dark chocolate and more.
Did you know?
Raisins are a source of phytochemicals, which may kill cavity-causing bacteria. They are also rich in antioxidants. Furthermore, granola is a whole grain, which is also good for your oral health. In fact, whole grains lower the risk of gum disease!
#3: An apple a day . . . and other fruits.
While limiting sugar intake is a concern, many fruits are very beneficial to overall health and oral health. These include apples, kiwis, pears, strawberries and oranges. Serve them whole, sliced, in a fruit salad, or a compote.
Did you know?
Fruits are high in fibre and water. For example, eating an apple triggers the production of saliva, which rinses away bacteria and food particles. Oranges are chock-full of health benefits. Pears are great at neutralizing acids. Kiwis and strawberries are packed with vitamin C. Moreover, strawberries are rich in antioxidants and malic acid, known as a natural teeth whitener.
#4: Fresh vegetables and yogurt dips.
Carrots and celery are our top picks for packing in your kids’ lunch box. They are both easy to prepare and fun to dip. Serve with a yogurt-based dip like tzatziki, top with cream cheese or other low-fat option.
Did you know?
Carrots are full of fibre and like apples trigger saliva production. As such, they help fight cavities, while celery acts like nature’s dental floss. Additionally, carrots are rich in vitamin A and celery is rich in vitamins A and C. Two vitamins that are great for your gum health!
#5: Healthy muffins, granola bars or banana bread
Since store-bought muffins, granola bars or banana bread are likely full of sugar, try making them yourself. Otherwise, head down the natural food aisle and check the ingredients.
Did you know?
Snacks made with whole grains are healthier and help reduce gum disease. Avoid products that contain too much sugar. If you make them yourself, consider sweetening with maple syrup or honey instead.
#6: Crackers and dips
Hummus, baba ghanoush, tzatziki, and tofu spreads are great served with crackers or pita wedges.
Did you know?
Tofu is made from soybeans and soy milk, which may help promote gum health.
#7: Yogurt
Yogurt is a great, delicious healthy snack idea for your kiddies. Serve it plain, in a tube, as a drink, with granola. The choice is yours!
Did you know?
Like cheese, yogurt is rich in protein and calcium, which is excellent for your teeth! In addition, serving it with whole grain granola or dried fruits is even better for your oral health.
#8: Smoothies
Smoothies are a great way to sneak all kinds of healthy ingredients into your child’s diet. Especially if you have picky eaters on your hands. Blend fruits like strawberries, bananas, blueberries or mangoes with vanilla yogurt, milk, uncooked oats or chia seeds. Moreover, you can even add a bit of unsweetened chocolate syrup or honey.
Did you know?
Smoothies are perfect for adding vitamins, minerals and nutrients to your kids’ day. The best part? All these healthy, oral-health-friendly ingredients are disguised as a treat!
Coming up with healthy snacks for your kids’ day camp lunch box can be tricky. Choosing wholesome, nutritious foods is important for their overall health, oral health and energy. Remember that on top of eating healthy, your kids should visit a dentist regularly. To make an appointment with one of our dentists, contact Fortin Poirier Dental Clinic today.