The first rule of thumb is: don’t keep foods in the house that are made with white sugar, white flour and hydrogenated oils. If these foods are not in your cupboards, you cannot eat them or be tempted to give them to your little ones. Instead learn to make healthy snacks for your kids. One book that I often refer to is called “Nourishing Traditions” by Sally Fallon. She can help you eliminate the three ingredients listed above. For example:
Instead of white flour, use: arrowroot powder, freshly ground whole wheat or spelt, or use nut meal (such as ground almonds.)
Instead of white sugar, use: maple syrup, stevia, raw honey, evaporated cane sugar juice (Rapadura is a preferred brand. It can be used cup for cup in place of white sugar)
Instead of hydrogenated oils, use: unrefined coconut oil, virgin palm oil, real butter (raw, if available) and cold pressed olive oil.
If you keep these in your house, you will be much more likely to make snacks at home.
Additionally, here are some snacks that you may want to keep on hand:
– Organic frozen fruit for smoothies, mixed with yogurt or kefir and raw honey
– Soaked and dehydrated nuts such as almonds (these are also great to make fresh almond or chocolate-almond milk)
– Bulk, dried fruit, such as: apricots, apples, coconut meat, peaches etc. (Dried fruit can be eaten “as is” or simmered in hot water to soften.)
– Yogurt and fruit
– Homemade cookies (made with above ingredients) and finger foods
If you have any questions on how to make these kinds of foods, just call or send me an email. I’d be happy to assist you!