Children often have a fondness for snacks, but many equate snacks with unhealthy junk food, which is not a comprehensive view. In fact, there is a wide variety of snacks; some are good for regular consumption, while others should be chosen carefully.
So, which snacks are better choices for children? Sunflower seeds are a good option as they are rich in protein, fats, various vitamins, and minerals, especially linoleic acid, which helps maintain skin health and prevent dryness and pigmentation. Peanuts are also a great companion; they are rich in vitamin B2, which helps prevent and treat various skin issues, such as chapped lips, itchy eyes, and seborrheic dermatitis. Cereal products, when properly processed, such as puffed cereals, are both crispy and easy to digest, making them suitable as children’s snacks. Of course, fruit is also widely loved, not only for its sweet taste but also because of its rich nutritional content, including easily absorbable sugars, digestive-promoting organic acids, and dietary fiber that helps prevent constipation.
However, not all snacks are suitable for children. For example, excessive consumption of chocolate may lead to nerve damage, increased heart rate, and indigestion in babies. Popcorn, due to its high lead content, may cause chronic lead poisoning, which can manifest as reduced appetite, diarrhea, and mood swings. Furthermore, some snacks contain artificial additives, such as potassium sorbate and artificial colorings, which may cause allergic reactions, affect calcium absorption, and even be restricted in foods in other countries.
To help children enjoy snack time more healthily, parents should pay attention to the following points: schedule snack time away from main meals to avoid affecting normal eating; prioritize fresh, easily digestible natural snacks while reducing intake of fried, high-sugar, or high-salt products; control snack portions to ensure they do not affect appetite for main meals; limit daily snack intake to no more than three times to prevent exceeding total intake; and most importantly, avoid using snacks as rewards or punishments to prevent children from forming incorrect notions and dependencies.
By following these guidelines, parents can better guide their children to enjoy snacks in a healthy way, making snacks a part of joy rather than a burden.
