Children’s Healthy Sugar Alternatives 

Sugar, Sugar Is Everywhere – and it’s not only in the obvious sweets – donuts, candy, cakes – but in hidden items, like bread, ketchup, instant oatmeal, salad dressing, peanut butter, etc., etc. And surprisingly, in Kids’ Vitamins!! Who would have thunk it?

If you are looking for ways to limit your child’s intake of processed sugar, here are several alternatives you can consider:

Fresh and Dried Fruit: “Real” fruit is a great source of natural sugars and is also high in vitamins and fiber. Offer a variety of fruit, such as apples, bananas, berries, and melons, as healthy snack options. They are good sources of fiber and natural sugars and can be a tasty addition to oatmeal, yogurt, or trail mix.

Yogurt: Yogurt is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, and many varieties are low in sugar. Look for plain yogurt and avoid yogurts with added sugars or syrups. It’s always best to add fresh fruit like bananas to sweeten yogurt.

Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are excellent snack options for kids. Nuts help reduce sugar cravings. They’re high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, and can be a tasty addition to yogurt or a trail mix.

Vegetables: Celery, carrots and cucumbers are excellent snack foods as well as ethnic foods like hummus (makes a great dip for veggies). Kids will get plenty of great vitamins once they get used to veggie snacking.

Vitamins for Kids: Many kids’ vitamins contain “hidden” sugars, like gummies – because they taste like candy (and in some ways act like candy). But there are alternatives, like Superior Source Kids Clean Melts™ – with up to 96% less sugar.

Keep in mind that all foods, with natural sugars, should be eaten in moderation. As part of a balanced diet encourage your child to eat a variety of healthy foods. Add whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.