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SALT LAKE CITY -- In a perfect world, kids would snack on apples and celery sticks without complaint. But the reality for most parents is buying packaged treats. So what are the healthiest of the "non-healthy" snacks for kids?
According to clinical dietician Lisa Cimperman from the University Hospitals Case Medical Center, the healthiest junk foods/snacks for kids are Kettle Corn, Trail Mix, Quaker Oatmeal Granola Bars and Kashi foods (cereals, snack bars, etc).
Cimperman also said all snacks should max out at 100 calories per serving and should contain no more than three grams of fat. According to the Mayo Clinic, snacks with grains (such as granola bars, cereals, etc.) can "provide energy with staying power" so kids can remain active throughout the day.
- Kettle Corn
- Trail Mix
- Quaker Oatmeal Granola Bars
- Kashi foods (cereals, snack bars, etc)
Another must in deciding how and what to give your kids is moderation.
"Teaching children that you can have treats once in a while and in moderation will go along way towards making them healthy adults," said Cimperman.
Dieticians also suggest looking for treats with three to five grams of fiber and less than eight grams of sugar per serving.
