Summer break is just days away and that means… road trip!
Getting in the car and exploring the country allows more time to spend with the family. Tummies can start to grumble and unfortunately the most convenient places to stop for a snack are typically a fast food restaurant or gas station. Packing a snack is a healthy alternative and convenient, fewer stops along the road allows for more time to site see!
Nuts
Nuts are a handheld treat that offers a great source of vitamins like zinc, calcium, and potassium. Nuts are full of healthy fats which have proven to make one feel full without eating much. Try considering something with added flavor like salted peanuts or sugary almonds.
Seeds
Seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, and even quinoa are rich in vitamin E and help increase energy. They can be mixed in with other foods to create a fun snack. Experts at www.sincerelynuts.com say chia seeds can be whipped into a delicious pudding or mixed into oatmeal.
Dried Fruits
A great alternative to candy, dried fruits are sweet yet full of nutritional value. Some dried apricots or even pineapple are delicious! There are a wide variety of dried fruits on the market, each rich in carbohydrates and low in fat.
Dried Vegetables
Forget the bag of greasy potato chips and try out a dried vegetable option. Delicious peas, okra and carrot chips are high in fiber and really good for you. Vitamin A is prevalent in dried vegetables, a key source to keep the heart, lungs, and kidneys strong.
Trail Mix in White Bowl
Snack Mixes
Ancient nomadic tribes used trail mixes long ago, and today the traveling family does too! Trail Mixes provide a quick boost of energy from the carbohydrates in the dried fruit and from the fats in nuts. Add a little bit of chocolate or yogurt covered raisins to make a new snack.
Chocolate
Chocolate may not seem like the go-to treat of choice, but chocolate in moderation can be good for you. Some benefits of chocolate include lower blood pressure, skin protection against UV rays, and it can help keep tummies full.
It may be challenging to get your picky eaters to find healthy foods appealing, but these options are more beneficial than anything found at the gas station. Supply your car with plenty of nutritional food and fun rewards for your well-behaved traveler. Road trips will never be the same again!
