As a mom, you are always trying to squeeze in the best and most nutrient dense food for your little one. With growing bodies and brains, it’s essential they get proper nutrition. If they would only just eat the kale chips you spent several hours dehydrating or swallow the cod liver oil, then we would be alright! The problem is, kids have a mind and taste buds of their own. Providing the best for your child is so much easier in theory. However, these kid-approved recipes will get your little one asking for seconds…mom win! More: Nom Nom Nom! Top 10 Healthy, Nut-Free Snacks for School Here are five new buzz-worthy superfoods for kids, how they are beneficial, and easy recipes the whole family will love.
Pulses: (aka, chickpeas, peas, lentils, kidney beans, black beans, soybeans, pinto beans, and navy beans)
Pulses are part of the legume family and are a great source of protein and fiber, iron, zinc, magnesium, and folate. What kid does not love muffins? Try this yummy looking and kid approved lentil carrot spice muffin:
Or try this chickpea banana chocolate slice. Anything with chocolate is a win with my kids!
Hemp Hearts
Hemp hearts, or shelled hemp seeds, contain over 30 percent fat. They are comprised of both Omega-6 & Omega-3 fatty acids and contain GLA, which is an anti-inflammatory. It may not seem important to incorporate anti-inflammatories into your child’s diet, but if your children suffer from eczema or asthma, an anti-inflammatory is extremely helpful. Chocolate spreads like Nutella are very popular. My daughter keeps asking for chocolate sandwiches since starting school (thanks, to whoever keeps sending their kid to school with one!) Here is a simple and delicious recipe for hemp chocolate spread that you can feel good about:
I’m a huge fan of these energy balls and so are my kids. They are easy to roll up and store in the fridge. Plus, the kids think they are a sweet treat!
Get it here.
Chia Seeds
Rich in Omega-3 fatty acid, fiber, protein, iron, calcium, and antioxidants, chia seeds are a great addition to any child’s diet. Have you ever made chia seed pudding? It’s ridiculously simple to make and delicious. It is similar to overnight oats, and there are so many ways to switch it up with honey or fresh berries. Check out this kid-friendly recipe:
Any bread-loving toddlers out there? Just kidding, I know that’s every toddler. Here is an awesome recipe for chia seed jam:
Get it here.
Ground Flax
This contains Omega-3 fatty acid and helps with digestive health. It could be very useful for children who have digestive troubles. Flax is also loaded with nutrients, protein, and fiber. What about Sunday morning recipes? Gotcha covered with this flax seed French toast:
Pizza of any kind is always a win in our house and fruit pizza is no exception. Here is a fun recipe that the kids will have an awesome time customizing:
Get it here.
Amazing Grass: Kidz Superfood
Everyone needs a go-to superfood powder and both of my kids (even my pickiest) absolutely LOVE their morning “chocolate milk.” With this one, I just add a scoop of the powder to a glass of their morning milk, shake, and serve. Simple as that. When they order chocolate milk at restaurants they don’t like it because they prefer this one. If you want another version, here is a smoothie recipe:
Another way to use this powder is in a muffin:
Get it here. Have you used any superfood powders? What’s your go-to recipe?