Smart Easter Eating

On occasions such as Easter, when families gather and the focus is food, restraint often goes out the window and we eat without thinking about the consequences. But, with some advance planning, even kids can eat well this Easter without substantially increasing calorie or fat intake.

Children are in many ways the most vulnerable to unhealthy snacking around Easter, when chocolate eggs and other sweets slip into their Easter baskets. Here are some healthy snacking suggestions for kids as well as adults:

1. Make a point of stocking up on healthier snacks such as graham crackers, pretzels, low-fat popcorn, raisins and dried fruit. Keep these items where kids can get to them.
2. Stock a variety of fresh fruit in the fridge. Also buy fresh carrots and crunchy celery sticks.
3. Substitute low-fat frozen yogurt, frozen juice bars or sorbet desserts for fattier ice cream.
4. Offer low-fat muffins instead of donuts, which are generally fried and rich in fat.
5. Most importantly, set a good example for your children by eating healthier yourself.