Health Team

Children's post-game snacks get a healthier makeover

With some children considered overweight, many parents encourage exercise by having their children join sports teams. But after the game, high-calorie snacks can be an unhealthy tradition.

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RALEIGH, N.C. — With some children considered overweight, many parents encourage exercise by having their children join sports teams. But after the game, high-calorie snacks can be an unhealthy tradition.

The Wake County Council on Fitness and Health saw something wrong with that calorie-laden tradition and decided to publish a list of suggested snacks, such as carrot sticks, raisins and water. They gave the list to recreation leagues, coaches and parents.

Basketball coach Lance Fife said parents usually bring post-game snacks for his basketball team.

“This summer, we've got 10 basketball games and we've got 10 players, so each parent will sign up for one game and they'll bring a snack and a drink,” he said.

The unhealthy snacks usually consist of a sports drink and chips or cookies, according to Joshua Fife, 9.

“We thought they're already doing a great thing by exercising, so that should really be paired with healthy snacks and drinks,” said Laura Aiken, of Advocates for Health in Action.

It might take awhile for the new snack tradition to catch on. Joshua said it's not a popular change with his team just yet.

“They're not very excited. They're not, like, jumping around very much,” he said.

But Joshua said he knows it's for the best and that it might even improve their snack habits at home.

 

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