Response to "Moms' Nutrition Hotline: Sports Kids Score with Good Nutrition"

[TLN Phil]

Phil:

"Good article. I'd like to see something about what to do when a
child's practice falls right in the middle of dinner, like my 8 year
old's football practice is from 4:30 til 6:30 twice a week. We have
to leave by 4, so he can't eat dinner at 3:30 and we don't get home
til almost 7, which makes for a really late dinner since bedtime is
around 8. Any good dinner ideas/strategies?"

Article: http://tlnutrition.blogspot.com/2008/12/moms-nutrition-hotline-sports-kids.html

Hi Elaine.

Thanks and super question. Your situation is a regular occurrence
with my kids during soccer, dance and hockey season.

When practices or games fall smack in the middle of dinner time, best
bet is to do away with a full blown meal that night. Save it for
leftovers :) Think small, easy-to-digest meals before and after the
activity. The meals should contain a balance of protein, carbs and
good fats (low-fat dairy, lean meats, unprocessed oils, nuts,
etc.). Balancing carbs, protein and fat provide the nutrients
required for before and after activity as well as sustaining energy
levels. Small, simply prepared portions prevent bloating before
activity and bedtime

Here's some options:

1. Cup of yogurt (like Stonyfield Farms) with or without a handful of
natural cereal or granola
2. Scrambled egg or two with whole-grain toast or bagel (can also be
in the form of an egg sandwich with slice of cheese)
3. Natural peanut butter and fruit-sweetened sandwich on whole-grain
bread (PB and banana is good stuff too!)
4. Cheese stick or two with fruit or natural fruit wrap
5. Nutrition bar (like Clif Luna, or Clif Builder)
6. Fruit smoothie with a low-fat dairy base like yogurt, milk or whey
protein powder

Have fun!

TLN Phil