Agawam Youth Cheer is excited to announce a new initiative to provide a snack list for their athletes during practices and games. The organization recognizes the importance of fueling young cheerleaders with nutritious snacks to help them perform at their best.

Agawam Youth Cheer is dedicated to supporting the physical and emotional well-being of their athletes, and believes that proper nutrition plays a crucial role in their success. The organization is grateful for the support of parents and volunteers, and Agawam Youth Cheer is looking forward to a successful and energetic season ahead.

KID-FRIENDLY AND ATHLETE-APPROVED HEALTHY SNACKS

Snacks that give you ENERGY

Energy bites -Often packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, energy bites can be a good on-the-go snack. You can try no-bake energy bites made with oats and peanut butter. Very popular among Pro-cheerleaders

Plain, full-fat yogurt. For kid-friendly yogurt, add fruit. For extra crunch and protein, add chopped fruit, nuts, seeds, or granola. Additionally, full-fat and Greek-style yogurts are great for tummies that have trouble digesting lactose.

String cheese. The perfect healthy option to pack with your athlete’s lunch or bag when she has sports practice.

Fruit. What’s the point of reinventing the wheel when nature already does it? It’s a healthy, delicious snack that’s packed with nutrients. You can carry bananas anywhere. Fruit slices, especially apple slices, pair well with peanut butter. The antioxidants in berries are anti-inflammatory and protect your joints.

            For example: Bananas-Contain complex carbohydrates, potassium, and B-vitamins, which can help boost energy and regulate blood sugar

Apple slices -Contain carbs that can provide an energy boost, and can also help release serotonin, which can improve mood.

Celery is a low-calorie and low-fat snack. It makes eating veggies fun and is an excellent snack when paired with nut or soy butter and raisins, aka “ants on a log.”

Oatmeal can be used to make a tasty snack. Adding milk to rolled oats gives them more protein. Top with sliced fruit like banana, strawberry, kiwi, or try adding flaxseed for adventurous eaters!

Carrot sticks and hummus are good sources of fiber, potassium, and healthy fats. They are also crunchy, which makes them a big hit with kids. High in protein and vitamins and minerals, hummus can be eaten with pita chips, carrot sticks, or a spoon

Trail mix-The nuts and seeds in trail mix provide protein to help repair muscles, while the healthy fats and natural sugars can provide energy. You can include a variety of nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, cashews, hazelnuts, pistachios, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, peanuts, and almonds, and add carbohydrate options like raisins, dried goji berries, dried cranberries, banana chips, chocolate chips, Chex mix, and pretzels

Cheese and crackers -The combination of healthy fats and carbohydrates in cheese and crackers can help repair muscles and energy levels. Look for healthy crackers and low-fat cheese