Healthy Alternatives to Kids' Favorite Foods

Pancakes

There's a reason why kids can't get enough of this sweet breakfast treat, but there's a way to curb the sugar. Opt for whole wheat mixed pancakes with a creamy maple-flavored yogurt sauce instead.

Photo: Jenny Sugar

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Pizza

A whole wheat pizza dough recipe is a nutritious base for pizza pies, and chances are kids will hardly notice the difference. Top it off with tasty greens and roasted vegetables for a colorful, flavorful bite.

Photo: Michele Foley

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Hot Dogs

Keep the hot dog flavor that kids love while knowing that they're getting a healthy alternative. This inventive recipe swaps buns and ketchup for tortilla squares and a fresh dip.

Source: Family Fresh Cooking

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Chips and Dip

This is a classic snack for playdates and parties, but store-bought versions have some not-so-good ingredients. Instead, make your own chips and onion dip, which utilizes Greek yogurt, a health-food staple!

Photo: Lizzie Fuhr

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Sloppy Joe

Simply swapping ground beef for lentils makes this classic kids' sandwich much healthier.

Source: Chocolate Covered Katie

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Chicken Nuggets

It's easy to throw some frozen nuggets in the oven and call it a meal, but with a little extra effort, you can create your own baked chicken tenders.

Source: Mel's Kitchen Cafe

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Mac and Cheese

There's no better comfort food than mac and cheese, but the boxed brands aren't the healthiest for kids or adults. Instead, try making your own ooey-gooey recipe that includes some nutritious dish.

Source: Super Healthy Kids

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Fruit Snacks

Image Source: Shutterstock

Fruits are already naturally sweet, but freezing them takes them to a whole other enjoyable level. It makes for a really easy snack that you can even dip in chocolate for an extra treat.

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PB&J

Image Source: Shutterstock

Whether it's for a morning or afternoon snack, PB&J sandwiches are the ultimate go-to snack. Make it a healthier option by substituting almond butter for peanut butter and swapping sugary jelly for honey and sliced bananas.

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French Fries

If you've already transitioned your tot to sweet potato fries, then you'll have no problem getting them to try a carrot version.

Source: Kim's Healthy Eats

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Burgers

Your kids won't be able to tell the difference between this turkey burger and the traditional dish.

Source: POPSUGAR user Shawna Batty

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Nachos

Trading tortilla chips for sliced bell peppers cuts the calories of this Mexican dish while giving your kids an extra serving of vegetables.

Source: Sweet Peas Kitchen

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Cupcakes

Every once in a while, kids (and adults) need a cupcake. Rather than making them from a box, bake some fudge-y beet brownies in a cupcake pan.

Source: Purely Twins

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Ice Cream

We all scream for ice cream — especially when we read the nutritional info. All you need to make this frozen alternative is a banana and a blender. If your kid wants chocolate, just add cocoa powder.

Source: Healthy Recipes Blog

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