Take Me Out to the Ballgame -- The Healthy Way!

It's that time of year when families are spending time at the ballpark.  Children are playing and families are watching or the whole family is going to a baseball game.  It's hard to try to have dinner on the table before going to the ballpark.  Buying food at the ballpark can cost a lot of money and have lots of calories and fat.  Why not pack some healthy foods to take with you?  Try these simple and easy tips to have healthy foods for your child as you head to the park!

1. Sandwich -- a quick and easy way to pack "dinner" as you go.  Try using low-sodium turkey or roast beef.  Use mustard instead of mayonnaise and add veggies like tomatoes and lettuce to give added crunch.  Peanut butter and jelly is an easy grab and go sandwich too!
2. Veggies -- many veggies are great grab and go snacks that kids will love! Try having carrots, celery, snap peas, grape tomatoes, broccoli and cauliflower.  Hummus is a great dip to take with you, too!
3. Fruits -- a nice "sweet" snack that kids can carry with them and eat as they go.  Grapes, bananas, apples, pears, and oranges are easy to eat on the go!
4. Snack foods -- bring healthier versions of the foods at the park.  Instead of buying the popcorn with butter, candies and chips take your own snack foods from home.  Pretzels, air popped popcorn, unsalted peanuts, or whole grain cereals make great snack foods that are low in fat and calories. 
5. Water -- a must have!  Buying regular soda can cost a lot of money -- and provide empty calories.  Have water on hand when sitting or playing outside.  Water can be flavored with fruits for added flavor. Water is the best way to keep hydrated.

**Make sure to take a cooler and ice packs with you.  This will help keep foods that need to stay cold from going bad in the hot sun.

What are some of the ways that you stay healthy when heading out to the ballpark during the summer?