10 Superfoods for Kids

One dilemma most parents encounter is the daily grind of getting their kids to eat -- and that's eat anything, let alone eating healthy foods. If you're nodding in agreement, rest assured countless moms and dads feel your pain. Still, focus on developing good eating habits in your children from a young age. Those habits can follow them into adulthood and help form the foundation for a healthy life. Reader's Digest and Happy Healthy Kids list plenty of superfoods to stock up on. Here are ten of the best.

Apples

While the belief that an apple a day will keep the doctor away might not be listed as fact in medical journals, apples certainly make for a healthy snack. They're loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, and they're a naturally sweet alternative to junk food.

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Oatmeal

When it comes to breakfast choices, discard the boxes of sugar for a delicious bowl of oatmeal. Oatmeal stabilizes your blood glucose and improves your mood. It's also full of vitamin B and beta-glucans, a substance that reduces the risk of heart disease while lowering cholesterol.

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Eggs

Staying on the breakfast front, you can't go wrong with eggs; a fantastic protein source. They also contain the nutrient choline, which aids in brain development.

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Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are just a few of the many berries that can satisfy your sweet tooth. Or, top off morning oatmeal with a handful too. Berries have an antioxidant called anthocyanin which improves vision while protecting the nervous system and blood vessels.

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Avocados

Avocados fall into the monounsaturated, or, healthy fats category. This green fruit is good for the brain and the eyes while also helping children to grow.

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Salmon

Another healthy fat, omega-3, is salmon. Like avocados, salmon is good for the brain and eyesight.

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Chicken

In addition to eggs and salmon, chicken is another good protein source. It makes for a good first protein for babies since it's mild and tender.

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Carrots

Known for their bright orange appearance, carrots are ripe with nutrients that help the immune system and, as the saying goes, your eyes.

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Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener that's perfect for adding to baked goods or oatmeal. Add a couple of teaspoons to a cup of hot tea when your child has a sore throat.

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Beans and Lentils

If your children struggle with staying regular, they might be lacking fiber. Beans and lentils will solve that. They're also a good protein source if you're seeking a meat substitute.

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Whether your kids are great eaters or picky eaters, make sure they consume the right amount of superfoods.

Feature Photo Source: Flickr/U.S. Department of Agriculture