Kristin Wells is a recent college graduate from The University of Georgia and an aspiring writer. She wants to make a difference in people’s lives through her writing. Kristin also likes competitive cycling, running, and traveling as much as possible. She blogs over at Musings of a Curious Mind.

Getting kids to consume healthy meals and snacks can sometimes be a challenge. The stigma children have attached to fruits and vegetables is that they taste bad and are boring. Adults know the truth: fruits and vegetables have the potential to be quite delicious with the right seasonings (some healthier
choices: pepper, kosher salt, rosemary, ginger and cinnamon) or even on their own. However, getting a child to believe that isn’t always easy. So, how can we get children to eat healthier foods and even enjoy them?

A smoothie is an excellent choice for children and adults, as you have the ability to put whatever you want into them and therefore control over how nutritious it is. Fruit smoothies can be incredibly tasty, tangy and filling. Berries are classified as being towards the top of the healthy fruit list and are
perfect for blending into smoothies. Blueberries, in particular, are noted for being immensely rich in antioxidants, fiber, nutrients and vitamins. Blueberries are nutritious and tasty, which is great for both kids and adults. According to Dr. Mehmet Oz, blueberries are the healthiest fruit and are a stellar anti-aging product. Blueberries also have the potential to ward off cancer and are low-calorie. Many hospitals make similar smoothies for patients undergoing chemotherapy for Pleural Mesothelioma because it is easily digestible and helps boost their immune system. Smoothies that contain blueberries and other types of fruit are guaranteed to be delicious and healthy.

Other options include pairing fruits and veggies with healthy dips such as natural peanut butter, which is high in protein. To make snacks appealing to kids, just use your imagination. Try placing the peanut butter in the center of celery sticks or as a smiley face on a plate with fruit. Kids and adults can still enjoy some of their favorite meals such as pasta and pizza by simply choosing the whole wheat options. Blending extra vegetables into any dinner dish (pasta, rice, stew, chili) boosts the vitamin and nutrient intake and adds a nice flavor. Experts stress the importance of being honest with your kids and getting them used to healthy foods, not tricking them into eating them.

Ultimately, maintaining a healthy diet is easy for both kids and adults with a little research and creativity. There are plenty of options out there to add a healthy kick to anything. Whether it’s adding some extra fruits and veggies or simply substituting some recipe ingredients with low-fat or whole
wheat products, getting kids to eat healthier can be easy and fun.