Posted on: 17 June, 2004
Author: Cyndi Roberts
Lately, there has been a lot in the news concerning obesity in America. And not just in adults--our children are over-weight, also.It's not surprising, considering the advertising dollars that are spe... Lately, there has been a lot in the news concerning obesity in America. And not just in adults--our children are over-weight, also.It's not surprising, considering the advertising dollars that are spent each year aimed at persuading children that potato chips, candy bars and other "junk food" are good for them.While we may not be able to change the world, we can change what is available to our children in our own homes.Here are a few healthy alternatives to those fat and sugar laden "store-bought" snacks.Please note that snacks and foods containing honey arenot suitable for those children under 2 years of age.>Peanut Butter Balls1/2 cup peanut butter1/2 cup honey1 cup toasted wheat germ1 tablespoons powdered milkMix ingredients well, shape into balls. Roll in coconut if desired.Store in refrigerator.>Popcorn is a great snack food. It is a good source of fiber and low in calories--until you add toppings. Don't add salt, but try sprinkling grated Parmesan or American cheese on top.Zipper top bags of popcorn are handy for taking along on picnics and other outings.>Honey "Cracker Jacks"6 tablespoons honey1/4 cup butter or margarine6 cups popped popcorn1 cup peanutsMelt honey and butter in microwave until melted and blended.Let cool. Mix peanuts and popcorn; pour honey mixture over andstir till coated. Spread in single layer in shallow baking pan.Bake at 350 degrees for 5-10 minutes. Stir several times during baking. Watch closely so it doesn't burn.Store in airtight container.>Apricot NectarSoak 1/2 cup dried apricots in 2 cups of pineapple juice for about 1 hour. Process in blender till smooth.>Fruity Soda DrinkCombine equal amounts of carbonated water with fruit juice. Sweeten with honey, if desired.>Banana Smoothie1 1/4 cups milk1 banana1/2 teaspoon vanillaProcess in blender till smooth. This is a good way to use up bananas.With summer coming up, frozen snacks will be on our grocery lists. Why not try these alternatives?>Homemade Frozen Pops1 6-oz. can frozen juice concentrate, softened try orange, grape, or fruit punch1 juice can water2 containers of plain yogurtpopsicle sticks and cupsProcess in blender. Pour into cups and insertsticks. Freeze.Small paper cups work pretty well as molds forthese recipes.>Make Your Own Pudding Pops1 small pkg. instant pudding mix--any flavor1 3/4 cup lowfat milkMix as directed on package. Once again, pour into molds and add sticks. Freeze. These ideas should help feed those hungry kids on these warm spring and summer days! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Could it be a mistake that "STRESSED" is "DESSERTS"spelled backwards? Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com