In these uncertain times, invest in a sure thing: your child’s health. Economic hardships do not have to lead to weight gain. Food prices are climbing, and you might be looking to fast foods and packaged foods for cheap bites. But there is no substitute for proper nutrition. Today’s food savings will be tomorrow’s medical bills. That said, there are ways to have it both ways - healthy and economical. In fact, some of the most inexpensive things you can buy are the best things for you.
The best snacks are low in calories and fat, and high in protein and fiber.
Different Snack Ideas:
1) Produce that is big in health, small in price and a great snack! Look for fruits and vegetables in season; they are healthy and cheap.
Vitamin-rich vegetables can become the centerpiece of your snack without putting a dent in your wallet. Try broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, cucumbers, celery, and peppers with a fat-free yogurt dip. These veggies range from $0.79 to $3.00 for a supply that will last for many snacks.
Opt for apples, pears, bananas and cranberries for inexpensive fruits packed with nutrients. A banana can be as little as $0.30 each and a 3-lb bag of apples sells for $2.85.
Looking for even cheaper fruits and vegetables? Browse through your supermarket’s freezer section. Frozen fruits and vegetables have all the same nutrients as fresh for a lot less money.
2) Get protein rich snacks from less expensive sources.
Nuts, beans and legumes cost very little but provide a robust flavor and a bounty of benefits to your health. They are packed with protein, fiber, and the good kind of fat. Another savings tip: You can buy in bulk.
3) Make us of leftovers.
When you make more than one meal at once, you save money and time. The trick is to plan in advance so that nothing goes to waste. Get creative; yesterday’s chicken dinner can be today’s fat-free chicken salad for a great snack!
4) Low-sodium soup: The low-cost, low-calorie superhero.
Sipping on soup can fill you up without emptying your pockets. A large 14.5 oz can sells for as little as $0.80.
5) BYO snacks.
Don’t leave home without a healthy snack for your kids tucked in your bag. When hunger strikes, you can give them a healthy, homemade snack instead of buying something unhealthy at a vending machine or fast food restaurant. Be adventurous; try making your own trail mix from cereal, whole grain pretzels and raisins.
General tips:
Look for the generic or store brand.
Look for bigger containers and boxes to save some money. To see if you are really getting a better deal, compare the unit prices of the bigger and smaller containers on the store’s shelf.
Stock up on non-perishables when they go on sale.
Avoid the temptation of the cookie and chip aisles.
Fresh products are found in the perimeter of the store. Focus on the fruits, vegetables, lean meats and low-fat dairy.
Use coupons, but only for things that you normally would buy.
Cook at home instead of going out to eat.
Joanna Dolgoff MD is a Pediatrician, Creator of Dr. Dolgoff’s Weigh: Online Child & Teen Weight Management and Mommy of two. Dr. Dolgoff’s Weigh has been featured on NBC, ABC, WPIX & My9 News & boasts a 96% success rate! Let your child lose weight today with Dr. Dolgoff’s Weigh at http://www.DrWeigh.com.
Article Source: Inexpensive Healthy Snacks for Kids

