Healthy Picnic and Snack Ideas: Fresh and Delicious Foods for Summer Outings

There’s no better way to enjoy the beautiful weather during the summertime than by having a picnic in the great outdoors. Picnics are a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and of course, indulge in delicious food. But who said picnics can't be healthy? In this blog post, we will explore the health benefits of enjoying a picnic every once in a while, along with some great healthy picnic foods. We will also talk about healthy snacks you can pack for your family on the go!

Health Benefits of a Picnic

Picnics offer numerous health benefits that go beyond just enjoying good food. Spending time outdoors has been shown to have a positive impact on both our mental and physical well-being. So break away from the busy schedule and too much technology and pack up a healthy meal to enjoy in the fresh air! Here are some of the health benefits you can experience during a picnic:

• Fresh Air and Vitamin D: Spending time outdoors exposes you to fresh air and sunlight, allowing your body to soak up some much-needed vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a vital role in maintaining healthy bones and a strong immune system. [1]
• Stress Reduction: Nature has a calming effect on our minds and can help reduce stress and anxiety. Taking a break from our busy lives and immersing ourselves in the beauty of nature can have a rejuvenating effect on our mental health.[2]
• Physical Activity: Picnics often involve activities like walking, hiking, or playing games, which provide an opportunity for exercise. Physical activity helps keep our bodies fit, boosts our mood, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.[3]

Healthy Picnic Foods

When planning a picnic, it's important to select foods that are not only delicious but also nourishing. Here are some ideas for healthy picnic foods that will keep you satisfied and energized:

• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Pack a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as sliced watermelon, berries, cucumber sticks, or cherry tomatoes. These are refreshing, hydrating, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
• Whole Grain Wraps or Sandwiches: Opt for whole grain wraps or sandwiches filled with lean proteins along with plenty of colorful vegetables. Whole grains provide fiber and nutrients, keeping you fuller for longer.
• Homemade Salads: Prepare nutrient-rich salads with a mix of leafy greens, crunchy veggies, and lean proteins. Consider options like a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables or a colorful chickpea salad.

A quick tip for packing your healthy foods is to use mason jars! Pack your salad, fruit, or veggies in layers in your jar. You can top your salad with dressing, so all you have to do is shake it up!

Why Should You Pack Your Own Snacks When Leaving the House?

When it comes to snacks, it's always a good idea to pack your own rather than relying on pre-packaged options. Here's why:

• Control Over Ingredients: By preparing your snacks at home, you have complete control over the quality of ingredients used. You can choose fresh, whole foods and avoid additives, preservatives, and excessive amounts of salt or sugar found in many packaged snacks.
• Portion Control: Pre-packaged snacks often come in larger portions than we need, leading to overconsumption of calories. By packing your snacks, you can portion them appropriately, ensuring you eat a balanced amount.
• Cost Savings: Buying pre-packaged snacks can be expensive, especially if you're purchasing them frequently. Packing your own snacks allows you to save money while still enjoying tasty and healthy options.

Healthy Snacks to Pack on the Go

When it comes to portable and healthy snacks, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire your next picnic:

• Nuts and Seeds: A handful of raw nuts or seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds, make for a satisfying and nutrient-dense snack. They provide healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals.
• Greek Yogurt or Hummus with Veggie Sticks: Pack individual servings of Greek yogurt or hummus along with a variety of vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. These combinations provide a great balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Trail Mix: Create your own trail mix by combining a mix of dried fruits, unsalted nuts, and seeds. It's a convenient and delicious snack that offers a combination of healthy fats, protein, and carbohydrates.
• Homemade Energy Balls: Make a batch of homemade energy balls using ingredients like oats, nut butter, seeds, and dried fruits. These bite-sized treats are packed with nutrients and provide a quick energy boost during your picnic adventures.
• Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn is a light and crunchy snack option that is low in calories and high in fiber. Sprinkle it with a dash of herbs or spices to add some flavor without adding extra calories.
  
  

Remember to pack these snacks in reusable containers to reduce waste and promote sustainability. Additionally, don't forget to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your outings or picnic adventures!

Incorporating these fresh and delicious foods into your picnic or daily family outings will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide your body with essential nutrients. So, whether you're heading to a park, or the mountains, these healthy snack ideas will keep you fueled and energized for your outdoor adventures.

As always, it's important to listen to your body and make choices that align with your dietary needs and preferences. Feel free to customize the snack ideas based on your personal tastes and dietary requirements.

As always, stay tuned for more healthy advice from your friends at Freeda!

Sources:

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3166406/

[2] https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature

[3] https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm