Eatright.org is a great source for any time you want nutrition-related information that is legitimate. With the big health push lately, most people know that this is an acknowledged, professional site for factual topics. What many people may not know, and what I found surprising, is that it also has some great tips that are pretty relatable to everyday life!
Jessica Cox, an RD, recently posted “8 Tips for Serving Healthier Party Treats.” It is found under the website’s Kids section at this link: http://www.eatright.org/resource/food/planning-and-prep/snack-and-meal-ideas/8-tips-for-serving-healthier-party-treats. If the title of the article itself isn’t enough to catch your eye, the bright picture of adorable children tossing balloons into the air sure is! You know exactly what the post is going to be about by looking at this captivating photo.
Many of the tips are pretty straightforward, such as how to make a healthier version of spinach artichoke dip and why you should replace sodas with less-sugary drinks. I found Tip #8 particularly interesting, though. This tip suggested that the host plan a “mystery basket” competition, where children each receive a basket full of healthy yet unusual foods, and whoever comes up with the best recipe using these foods wins. This is not only a fun way to get the kids involved in making their own nutritious and delicious snacks, but it saves you planning and cooking time. Score! It also may save you from having to buy crafts or games to keep the kids occupied, because this is a great time-consuming activity for them to do. Double score!
As a nutrition educator, I can definitely see these tips being helpful because parties are and always will be a part of our lives. Everyone likes a good party, and everyone expects to eat really awesome food at them! These tips are helpful so that parents of kids know that they can still host an awesome party with awesome food, just without the loads of calories and sugar. The best part about not having baskets of snacks and colored drinks at your next party? Not having to worry about the red fruit punch spilling on your new carpet and instead getting the chance to kick back, relax, and enjoy yourself!