Fast food and sugary treats are everywhere around us, thus finding healthy snack options for toddlers is more important than ever. High sugar consumption is linked to several health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dental problems.
It is important for us to give our kids a head start into healthy eating and lay the foundation for a healthier lifestyle. Here are six low-sugar snack ideas that are both delicious and beneficial for your little ones.
1. Vegetable sticks with hummus
I didn't try hummus until I was a teenager, and in all sincerity, I had to get used to the flavor profile at first. However, it is now my go-to dip. Vegetables are a cornerstone of any healthy diet, offering vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Pairing crunchy, raw vegetables such as carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers with a creamy hummus that’s packed with protein provides a tasty snack your toddler will love.
The National Health Service (NHS) recommends healthier snacks like these for their nutritional benefits and ability to promote good eating habits from a young age.
2. Fresh fruit skewers
Fruit is nature's dessert, providing natural sweetness along with vital nutrients. For toddlers, fruit skewers made with berries, kiwi, and melon are not only fun to eat but also low in sugar.
Because of Panama’s hot weather, I like to make my fruit skewers in advance and stick them in the freezer.
UNICEF highlights the importance of choosing the right first foods for children, emphasizing fruits and vegetables for their health benefits.
3. Cheese and whole grain crackers
When I was in college, I used to babysit my little nephew, and there was no way we could watch Dora the explorer, Peppa Pig or the Wiggles without a bowl of Goldfish crackers.
Want a healthier upgrade? Cheese and crackers! A simple snack that is rich in protein and fiber will support a balanced diet and contribute to growth and development.
Pro tip: Steer clear of the funky or smelly cheeses at the beginning. I would start with mozzarella, cheddar, and swiss, eventually moving into gouda, soft goat cheese and manchego.
4. Yogurt with mixed seeds
Unsweetened yogurt, especially Greek yogurt, paired with mixed seeds like chia or flaxseed, is a powerhouse snack offering protein, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
You can also make a quick and easy “no-added sugar compote” by pulsing in your food processor one or several fruits together, with a little bit of water, and then reducing in a pot on low heat until the mixture is syrupy.
5. Oatmeal bites
Oatmeal bites made with rolled oats, mashed bananas, and cinnamon are a wholesome and low-sugar practical snack. They're easy to prepare and perfect for on-the-go snacking. These have quickly become a family favorite, and there are hundreds of variations online.
Find different things that your toddler favors and add them to the basic recipe. Some examples:
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Berries
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Semi-sweet chocolate chips
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Coconut
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Peanut or almond butter
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And any kind of nuts and seeds
6. Frozen banana pops
Bananas are nutrient rich, containing potassium, vitamin C, B6, manganese, and dietary fiber, promoting heart and brain health. Frozen banana pops are not only a delicious treat but also a fun and healthy snack.
I love dipping them in peanut butter and chocolate; however, the latter is not necessarily a low-sugar option. Just like the oatmeal bites, there are endless possibilities for toppings.
An enjoyable journey towards health and family unity
Introducing your toddler to low sugar snacks can be a rewarding journey towards healthier eating habits.
By offering a variety of nutritious options, you can expand their palate while ensuring they receive the essential nutrients they need to grow and thrive.
Give these a try and see what your kid likes. You can even involve them in the making-of, allowing for a fun family activity that’s sure to strengthen your relationship!
About the Author
Jalil Mendoza is our School Services Manager and Chef. He has a passion for culinary arts and a commitment to promoting healthy eating habits. With years of experience in culinary and hospitality management, Jalil understands the importance of providing children with nutritious/homestyle cooking while making it fun and appealing to our community.