![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.dietsinreview.com\/diet_column\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/04\/sports-snacks-3.png\")
<\/a><\/p>\nKids do need to refuel after practice, but healthier choices can be made than the snack cakes and soda that are usually made available. Registered dietitian Mary Hartley<\/a><\/strong>, our resident nutrition expert, recommends fruit, yogurt, hummus with pita and vegetables<\/a><\/strong>, or healthy homemade muffins as wholesome foods that make good after-practice snacks. She warns against soda, candy, chips and other processed foods that contain a lot of sugar and fat. Though eating something after practice is an important step in refueling the body, it shouldn’t take priority over hydration.<\/p>\n After a long practice, it is most important for kids to rehydrate. “Water is fine, but if heavy sweating is an issue, have a sports drink,” said Hartley. She also recommends chocolate milk as a good drink<\/a><\/strong> for refueling muscles because of its ratio of carbohydrates to protein. Chocolate milk can also be a good substitute for sugary snacks by providing kids the nutrition they need and satisfying a craving for something sweet.<\/p>\n It might not be necessary for kids to have a snack right after practice if it goes late into the afternoon or early evening. An easily digested snack like yogurt, fruit, or half a sandwich before practice may be better, especially if breakfast and lunch were early in the day. “When choosing an after-school snack, remember the adage, ‘don\u2019t spoil your appetite for dinner!’ The last thing you want is for a kid to eat a granola bar in lieu of a nutritious meal,” said Hartley.<\/p>\n This season, try these healthy and portable snack options for your kids and their teammates. Healthier eating and snacking habits have to start somewhere, why not with you? Also Read:<\/strong><\/p>\n Pre-Workout v. Post-Workout Snacks<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Sugar and Salt: Battle for the Worst<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n 6 Easy Ways Parents Can Feed Their Families Healthy Meals Image from volunteerspot.com<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Spring sports are a great way for kids to enjoy the warmer weather and get active. What is not so great are some of the snacks that are provided after practice or a game is done. Kids do need to … Continue reading
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n\n
\n<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n