Children are masters at camouflaging their greens on their plate, sneaking them into the dog’s bowl, burying their peas under mashed potatoes…you name it, they’ve tried it. Getting teens and children to eat their greens can be a tough sell, but it is so important for their nutrition and growth.
Why Go Green?
Green vegetables are high in calcium, fiber, folate, magnesium, and potassium. They’re also packed with vitamins A, B, E, C, and K. This means that greens can help with digestion, bone growth and strength as well as immune system support. While these benefits and nutrients are essential for everybody no matter their age, they are especially important for children. Calcium is central in developing healthy and strong bones and teeth. Greens also boost the immune system, which can keep your little ones from getting sick. We all know how much they need this extra support when they are trading germs on the playground! Since their bodies are growing so fast, they can use all the vitamins and nutrients they can get.
Powered Green Drinks to the Rescue
If you have a picky eater on your hands, one way to make sure your child is getting their vitamins and nutrients in is by sneaking some extra greens into just about every meal. It can be a fun challenge! An easy way to get this done is with a powdered green drink mix, providing a high quality, balanced source of bioavailable nutrients that are easily absorbed by the body. They can help you sneak in a serving of greens, and offer a powerhouse of balanced nutritional benefits for the whole body.
Here are a few of our favorite recipes for quick and easy ways to incorporate a greens powder into some kid-friendly smoothies, dips and snacks.
Superhero Smoothie
PREP TIME 5 mins
SERVINGS 1 cup
Ingredients
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 scoop chocolate protein powder
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
½ medium banana
1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds
2 teaspoons Kyo-Green Greens Blend Powdered Drink Mix
1 cup ice
A few drops of stevia, if desired
Instructions
- Add ingredients to blender and process to desired consistency.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Goodie Green Guacamole
PREP TIME 5 mins
SERVINGS 2 cups
Ingredients
3 medium avocados
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Kyo-Green Greens Blend Powdered Drink Mix
1 teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Mash avocados and combine all ingredients.
- Add additional salt, pepper and spices to taste.
- Enjoy!
Nut Butter Green Energy Bites
PREP TIME 5 mins
SERVINGS 6 bites
Ingredients
½ cup creamy almond nut butter
1 cup pitted dates
1 cup old-fashioned oats
½ cup raw cashews
2 tablespoons chocolate protein powder
1 tablespoon Kyo-Green Greens Blend Powdered Drink Mix
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a food processor and pulse until a course, but moldable mixture forms.
- Form mixture into small, bite-sized balls and place on wax paper lined cookie sheet.
- Place in refrigerator for an hour and then enjoy!
Don’t let vegetables become a battleground. Remember, by choosing health-promoting foods, you can establish good nutritional habits in your child that will last a lifetime. It’s never too early, or too late, to improve dietary habits and promote healthy eating for the whole family.
This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
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