Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1086923
www.FredericksburgParent.NET 11 HUMMUS AND PITA CHIPS I adore roasted garlic hummus and seasoned pita chips for an afternoon snack. Any type of hummus is an excellent alternative to fattier dairy- based dips and spreads because chick peas (or whichever type of bean your favorite hummus uses) provides tons of fiber and protein. Chick peas are also very high in folate, which is great for expectant moms, and it may have cancer-fighting abilities. SWEET POTATOES Who says veggies are only for lunch and dinner? I eat sweet potatoes as snacks regularly—they are my favorite veggie! Fortunately, they are super healthy. High in fiber, potassium and beta carotene, sweet potatoes are super easy to prepare. I poke a few holes in one with a fork and microwave until tender. Since they are low in calories and fat, adding a dollop of butter won't make you feel too guilty, either! STRING CHEESE STICKS OK, so these are usually a kid-friendly purchase at the grocery store, but I have my fair share of low-fat string cheese to hold me over between meals too! And I don't feel guilty about it at all since a little bit of cheese is healthy for those of us consuming dairy products! If you stick with skim-milk-based choices, string cheese is a great source of protein and calcium (which we ladies need to make sure we're getting enough of as we age), as well as a host of other important vitamins and minerals. It's also excellent for on-the-go snacking, picnicking, and when you just don't have time for much else! CHOCOLATE MILK A glass of milk with a squirt of chocolate syrup is OK! It's one of my favorite snacks post-workout, and experts agree milk is a great way to promote recovery after exercise. Not only does milk provide calcium needed for healthy bones, but it's a great source of protein, which is essential for the muscle growth and repair that occurs after a strenuous workout and strength training. You can reap the nutritional benefits without the calories and fat by sticking with low-fat milk. Personally, I find that this type of protein intake fills me up and keeps me satiated for quite some time, making it an ideal snack! Remember, when you're not taking care of yourself, it's hard to take care of others. If we go too long without eating, the result can be unhealthy binge eating, poor food choices, too much sugar and empty calories and unnecessary money spent. As busy moms, it's more important than ever to take the time to plan for our own meals and snacks so we are fueled properly to take on the challenges of moth- erhood and everyday life in a healthy and happy way! Unwavering Passion. You don't have to be perfect to be a foster parent. All we ask is that you are at least 21 years old, maintain patience, flexibility, and commitment, and can provide a safe home and reliable transportation. OPEN YOUR HOME and raise hope for a teen or child in our community. Contact Danetta McKnight at 434-447-8630 or dmcknight@umfs.org to learn more, or sign up for an information session Raising. Hope. Become a foster parent umfs.org/becomeafosterparent Approx. 5,000 children are in foster care in VA. Nearly 200 need homes in our community. Unwavering Support. When you choose to foster with UMFS, you will receive on-call support and in-depth training from professional staff, in addition to parent support groups and financial reimbursements. SWEET POTATOES Who says veggies are only for lunch and dinner? I eat sweet potatoes as snacks regularly—they are my favorite veggie! Fortunately, they are super healthy. High in fiber, potassium and beta carotene, sweet potatoes are super easy to prepare. I poke a few holes in one with a fork and CHOCOLATE MILK A glass of milk with a squirt of chocolate syrup is OK! It's one of my favorite snacks post-workout, and experts agree milk is a great way to promote recovery after exercise. Not only does milk provide calcium needed for healthy bones, but it's a great source of protein, which is essential