Refuel with Back to School Snacks
Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA
Afterschool snacks are just as important as the activities that follow them. Make sure your child has a nourishing snack to support physical activity and growth and development.
- Keep snacks simple with bananas, Greek yogurt, string cheese, raisins, Dole Fruit bowls, hummus and whole grain crackers just to name a few.
- Protein rich snacks like nut butters, Greek yogurt and cheese will support their growing bodies, while quick carbs like dried fruit and fruit bowls will give them a boost of energy.
Here are some quick tips:
- Balance snacks with two food groups like bagel & nut butter or fruit & cheese!
- Get your kids involved in planning; kids are more likely to eat foods they were involved in choosing.
- Don’t forget about food safety. Include an icepack for items that are meant to stay cold like yogurt, pudding or hummus.
- If your child comes home before activities, keep washed fruit on the counter ready to eat.
- Try to model nutritious and healthy habits for your child as they will be more likely to follow in your footsteps!
Cranberry-Almond Protein Balls
Easy, make-ahead and full of nutrition! These are great for after-school snacks, after a workout or anytime you need a little pick-me-up!
Prep: 15 minutes
Makes: about 28 (1 Tbsp) balls
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Justin’s® Almond butter*
- 2 scoops Vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 teaspoons almond milk
- 2 tablespoons Ocean Spray Craisins
Directions:
- Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, stir well.
- Using a one-tablespoon scoop/spoon, scoop out dough into 28 balls onto a large cookie sheet.
- Refrigerator until firm, then store in air-tight container in refrigerator or freeze.
NOTE:
* Oil separation in natural nut butters is normal, just give it a stir before using and refrigerate.
Nutrition Information:
92 calories; 9g carbohydrate; 5g fat; 4g protein; 35mg sodium; 1g fiber
Recipe by Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA