Health and Nutrition Advice for Families On the Go

By Ellen Speare, Wild Oats’ Nutritionist

At Wild Oats we know that families today are incredibly busy. It is important for kids to stay active for optimum long-term health. A balance of diet and exercise will position kids for a healthier adult life, so it is never too soon to start with a regular exercise program. However, rushing from soccer practice to dance lessons and other activities, sometimes makes a stop at the local fast food place the most convenient option for feeding our kids.

We realize that healthy eating can be a challenge with active families. But children need healthy snacks for energy, mood balance, and good immunity. Instead of making a pit stop at the local fast food joint, take a few moments before leaving the house to make a smoothie that’s full of good nutrition and is great for hydration – another critical nutritional tool in Colorado’s dry climate. Smoothies are quick and easy. They are also a great way to get children to have the right balance of protein and essential fatty acids. This smoothie shopping list from Wild Oats offers a simple mix and match program for a variety of choices. There is no right or wrong, and ingredients can be matched for flavor preference.

Milk or one of these non-dairy milk choices:
Soy milk
Almond milk
Sunflower seed milk
Rice milk

Sources of protein powder:
Soy protein (Vitamin Logic)
Whey protein (Designer Protein)
Rice protein (NutriBiotics)

Source of sweeteners – optional (try without sweeteners first)
Honey
Rice sweetener
Barley malt
Stevia
Fructose
Avoid diet sugar products!!

Fruit – choose one or mix to taste:
Bananas
Red apples
Berries
Peaches
Mangoes
Papayas
Pineapples
Veggie juices, such as carrot juice, can also be used

Special health additions – use each one every day:
Green Vibrance – Super green food with antioxidants
Fiber – products include Earthrise Clean Health, FibProFlax, psillium husks
Essential Fatty Acids – Omega 3, 6, 9 – very important for skin, hair, hormones, brain function.

Add ingredients to a blender with some ice, blend, and you have a healthy, quick snack that will give you and your kids energy, protein, and essential nutrients.

Ellen Speare is a veteran nutritionist with more than 16 years experience, specializing in preventative health care. She is the clinical nutritionist for Wild Oats’ Colorado stores. She can assist with children’s health issues, selection of vitamins and herbs for individual needs, private shopping for special diet or food plans, and general nutrition questions. To contact Ellen, please call 303.440.5220, ext. 4008.