Child Nutrition

More than two thirds of the survey-takers said that when they choose a snack they think about how healthy it is (or isn't). That's impressive. Awareness of what's good for you and thinking about your choices are the first steps in making healthy snacking choices.

Plenty of our respondents are doing more than just thinking about healthy snacking choices, though — they're making them, too. More than a third said the snacks they choose most often are health-conscious ones (such as whole-grain crackers, yogurt, fruits, and veggies).

But many who said they think about what they're choosing still find it's not always possible to eat the healthiest snack. That's understandable. Unfortunately, it can be all too easy to give in to a craving or to eat what's easiest to get your hands on when you're really hungry.

Some of our readers said that planning ahead and making sure they have the right stuff on hand can help them make healthy choices when their snacking willpower is low.

Sally, 16, says, "Stocking your fridge with healthy foods will help you get to or stay at a healthy weight. Pigging out on healthy foods feels a lot better than pigging out on cake or another food that is supposed to be eaten in moderation."

Rosie, 14, offers this advice: "Instead of eating unhealthy foods because it's convenient, plan ahead and prepare tasty, healthy foods."

Alena, 16, agrees. "If you have food with you and plan when you will eat, you don't get as hungry and aren't tempted to resort to convenience food from vending machines or fast food."

For many of you, managing your munchies may come down to managing your parents: "A lot of parents buy their kids bad food," says Stephanie, 13. "Ask them to get some healthy food you will enjoy just as much."