Dr. Renna Answers Some Commonly Asked Questions
1) What are some healthy snack suggestions for my child who is always on the go?
Some of the best foods are very portable. Nuts are my number one favorite healthy snack. They are loaded with nutrition and packed with energy. Be careful about letting your child eat too many because they do contain a lot of fat – even though it’s the “good” kind of fat.
Fruits are also a very convenient snack, and there are many to choose from. They are all loaded with nutrients and energy. Dried fruit is also a good snack, but watch for added sugar and preservatives. Olives are a little thought-of snack, but again are packed with energy and nutrition (olives also contain a lot of salt, so limit this choice.) High-fiber cereal in a sealed plastic bag is another perfectly fine, portable snack; it needs no refrigeration and will keep for a long time. Air-popped popcorn is also a great snack – just make sure it is air-popped and not loaded with butter. In addition, string cheese and yogurt are great snack ideas. Just make sure that they are low fat (keep away from non-fat versions, since they usually have a lot of added sugar.)
2) How is it possible for me to get my children to exercise when they have never expressed any desire to do so in the past?
Educate and participate. Teach your children about all the advantages that exercising will give them, from running faster, jumping higher, being stronger and even doing better in school. Show your children that you are exercising, too, and share with them the benefits you get from exercising. Explain this in concrete terms and tell them how the exercise makes you feel physically. The impact that adults have on kids is amazing. Show them and they will follow.
3) What are the best beverages for kids these days?
Kids should drink mostly water, but include skim or low-fat milk, 100% fruit juices and fresh vegetable juices as an important part of their diet. Also, when exercising, remember that hydration is important – make sure that your child drinks water before beginning exercises, and then continues to drink in between exercises and at the end of the workout.
4) What about fast food?
Although fast food does not fit into the healthy lifestyle plan I have developed, this doesn’t mean that your child cannot ever have these foods. You need to recognize that these items should only be eaten sparingly. Nutrient-deficient foods do more harm than good. Try to offer healthier substitutions instead, e.g., baked chicken versus chicken nuggets, frozen yogurt versus ice cream, etc.