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Sneaking Healthy Foods into Your Child's Diet

If you have ever dealt with picky eaters, then you know how hard it is to make sure the kids get the right amount of healthy foods in their diet—especially vegetables. Kids are picky with just about anything that goes on to a plate at one time or another. Your kid may love peas one night and despise them the next. Kids are picky about the color, texture and even the size of all kinds of food. So, how do you make sure your kids get the healthy stuff in their diet? Here are some tips that can help you.

Baked goods:

Almost all kids like baked goods, especially muffins and quick breads. Take this opportunity to sneak in the good stuff. They will probably never even know the difference. For example, you can add whole grain flour to your banana bread recipe or add shredded carrots to your favorite carrot cake recipe. How about zucchini bread? Just make sure the green stuff is small enough to go undetected.

Add to sauce:

Another great tip is to add pureed vegetables to your sauces, such as spaghetti sauce. While there are some kids that turn their noses up to sauce, most kids will eat them. You may need a good food processor, but once you puree the vegetables, your kids will never know the difference. It makes it taste good, and adds some great nutritional value.

Think meatballs and meatloaf:

Do you have a kid that will eat meatballs or meatloaf? Jump on the chance to add in the vegetables. Again, puree the vegetables (try carrots) and add them to the meat before cooking. Also, another great way to feed your kid is to use leaner meats such as ground turkey or very lean beef when making these dishes. These are appealing and kids will never know.

Cut the sugar:

When you bake cookies, cakes and other baked goods, you can make it healthier by cutting down on the amount of sugar and fat in the recipe. For example, you can substitute honey for sugar and switch out oil or butter for applesauce. You get the same results, a great taste and it is far better for you and your kids, too.

Skip frying:

Of course fried foods are yummy, but they are so bad for you. Any food that you can fry, can also be baked. That includes French fries and tator tots. Simply place on a nonstick baking sheet, spray with cooking oil spray and cook until crispy. Your kids will love it and it is far better for them, too. Do the same with chicken nuggets.

Make healthy foods more appealing:

Another good idea is to make healthy food more appealing. For example, when you offer fresh vegetables, present them in a unique way alongside some favorite dipping sauce or peanut butter. Little baby carrots are sweet and easier to eat. Your kids might also enjoy eating frozen vegetables, straight out of the freezer. It sounds strange, but why not give it a try?