Easter doesn’t have to be choc full of junk to be full of fun.
By Angela Buntic
Despite an increased awareness of childhood obesity over the last few years, sales of chocolates at Easter time are on the rise. Last year, approximately $230 million was spent on Easter treats across Australia and New Zealand alone. Now that’s a lot of kilojoules being consumed!
While a little indulgence from time to time isn’t going to cause any serious damage, why not try a healthier approach this year and treat your kids to an Easter basket with a little twist?
Easter eggs are very high in kilojoules – just four small solid eggs contain about 1000kJ which would take your kiddies about an hour of running around to burn off. In fact, the daily kilojoule intake for children is just 6000kJ, anything more gets stored as fat or needs to be worked off with additional exercise.
When buying Easter eggs, choose quality over quantity. Recent evidence suggests that dark chocolate is a rich source of antioxidants, which may contribute some health benefits when eaten in small amounts. Look for 70 per cent cocoa content or higher. If the kids don’t like dark chocolate, look for good quality milk chocolate with cocoa listed first in the ingredient list. Also, go for snack size treats instead of regular size to reduce their energy and sugar intake.
Or why not scatter small packets of chocolate and yoghurt covered raisins, sultanas or dried apricots in the baskets? Now you have an Easter treat that can be enjoyed without the calories that can lead to weight gain in kids over this period.
Finally, try limiting the treats to Easter Sunday itself, rather than indulging the week before and the week after Easter, and compensate for the eggs by going for an hour’s walk with the family on Easter night.
Remember, Easter baskets don’t have to be chock full of junk to be fun. Healthy additions make healthier kids without sacrificing the excitement of receiving a treat.
Nutritionist’s tip: Add a non-edible gift, such as a stuffed toy or an electronic game. It will take up space ordinarily filled with chocolates and will make you and your basket look extra special.
If you have a question for our nutritionist email us at [email protected]
Angela Buntic is an Accredited Practicing Dietician at Bondi Junction Medical Practice, Suite 6015B, Level Westfield Shopping Town, Bondi Junction, 02 9389 9699
