Summer Food Highlight: Beets - Fueling Healthy, Happy, and Learning Littles!
Hey there, Friends and Fams!
Welcome to an exciting summer food highlight brought to you by, yours truly, SolBe Mar. Today, I want to share with you the star vegetable of our July Nutrition offering at SolBe Learning: Beets! These ruby-red wonders are not just ordinary vegetables; they are nutritional powerhouses that can fuel your child's growth, happiness, and learning adventures. My hope is that families will try to integrate this power veg at home, even if your preschool does not have a dedicated nutrition program. Let's delve into why beets deserve a spot on your child's plate this summer.
Plant Forward Eating for Optimal Health:
As an advocate of plant-forward eating, I firmly believe that the foundation of good health starts with wholesome, plant-based foods. Beets perfectly embody this philosophy. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they offer a wealth of nutrients that are vital for your child's overall well-being. From fiber for healthy digestion to essential vitamins and minerals for growth, beets have it all.
Food as Nutrients and Medicine:
At SolBe, our school in Chestnut Hill, MA, we view food as more than just sustenance. We recognize its incredible potential to serve as both nutrients and medicine for our little ones. Beets are a shining example of this concept. They contain natural compounds called nitrates, which, when consumed, can help enhance blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain. This, in turn, supports cognitive function and boosts learning capabilities. Beets truly are a "brain food" that can nourish and stimulate young minds.
Now that we understand the immense benefits of beets, let's explore some playful and tasty ways to incorporate them into your child's meals.
Fun and Flavorful Ways to Serve Beets:
Beet Chips: Slice fresh beets thinly, toss them in a little olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and bake until crispy. These vibrant beet chips make a fantastic and nutritious alternative to store-bought potato chips. Enjoy them together as a fun snack!
Beet Hummus: Blend cooked and peeled beets with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and a dash of garlic to create a delightful and colorful beet hummus. Serve it with whole grain crackers or as a spread in sandwiches for a nutrient-packed snack or meal.
Beet Pancakes: Puree cooked beets and add them to your favorite pancake batter. The result? Beautiful pink pancakes that are both visually appealing and packed with nutrition. Top them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a complete breakfast treat.
As we continue our journey towards nurturing healthy, happy, and learning little ones, incorporating beets into our children's diets this summer is a fantastic step forward. With their nutritional power, cognitive benefits, and delicious versatility, beets are a must-try vegetable for the whole family. So, let's embrace the colorful world of beets and watch our children thrive!
Until next time, stay curious and keep exploring the wonders of food!
Warmly,
SolBe Mar
**Disclaimer: When introducing new foods to children under the age of six, please be mindful of potential allergens. It is important to consult with a pediatrician or healthcare provider and follow their guidance. Take caution, introduce new foods one at a time, and monitor your child for any allergic reactions. If you have any concerns or suspect an allergy, seek medical advice immediately. Each child is unique, so individual dietary needs and allergies should always be considered.
