Simple, Low-Sugar Easter Treats 

Nicole Palmieri, who is currently studying Dietetics at the University of Dayton, shared with Healthy Lombard that…

With Easter around the corner, this holiday is typically associated with sugary treats such as Peeps, Cadbury Crème eggs, chocolate bunnies, and jellybeans. While it is tempting for kids to indulge in these desserts all day long, the Cleveland Clinic states that “too much [added] sugars can affect your child’s mood, hyperactivity levels…have a higher risk of insulin resistance, prediabetes, and Type 2 diabetes.” To add a healthy twist to Easter, here are a few ideas for less sugary treats!

Frozen Chocolate Banana Slices

Cut thick slices from bananas, dip in melted chocolate, and freeze for about 30 minutes before enjoying! This is still a sweet treat with chocolate, but you can control all the added sugars and cut back on it by implementing fruit! Bananas contain plenty of potassium, which is beneficial to regulating your child’s blood pressure and fluid balance.

Oatmeal Peanut Butter Bites

Simply combine ½ c. creamy peanut butter (or melt peanut butter in the microwave for 20 seconds), 1 c. old-fashioned rolled oats, and 2 T. honey in a bowl. Then, scoop out the mixture and form it into bite-sized balls. Lastly, place on a parchment-lined sheet in the fridge until they firm up, about 20-30 minutes before enjoying! This treat offers healthy fat, carbohydrate, and protein! The honey in these bites will sweeten it up, too!

Yogurt-Covered Strawberries & Pretzels

Either buy or make your own yogurt-dipped strawberries and pretzels! This dessert offers a healthier alternative to white chocolate-dipped fruit and pretzels for your kids, while still tasting delicious!

Unsweetened Applesauce

If you are short on time, a great snack option for this holiday is unsweetened applesauce! It can be a convenient choice when traveling and still provide sweetness with its naturally occurring sugars.

Fruit & Yogurt Granola Cup

Follow this recipe to make a satisfying twist on yogurt parfaits! These granola cups are easy to prepare, filled with yogurt and fruit (or you can choose to exclude yogurt if your child dislikes it) to provide a less sugary dessert.

References

1. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-to-do-when-your-child-eats-too-much-sugar
2. https://www.bakeandbacon.com/3-ingredient-peanut-butter-oatmeal-balls/comment-page-1/#recipe

https://delightfuladventures.com/fruit-yogurt-granola-cups/#recipe