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Energy Foods

Healthy Fuel for Active Kids from A to Z

By Melanie Wilson

U – Udon are Japanese noodles made from wheat flour. Unlike some types of whole-wheat pasta, however, they are not hard. Softer than spaghetti, you can add them to your favorite soup, or serve them as a base for stir-fries instead of rice.

V – Vegemite, originally found in Australia but available now across the United States, is a salty yeast spread traditionally served very thinly spread on bread with butter. Skip the butter, choose a non-hydrogenated margarine instead and get a good dose of B vitamins for physical and mental energy.

W – Whole-wheat bread is made from wheat flour before it's been stripped of its nutrients to obtain the light color and texture of white flour. Don't let the label fool you – some "wheat bread" isn't really whole if it's made with enriched flour. Molasses is often added to give it the brown color associated with healthier whole-wheat bread.

X – Extra water is what active kids need to stay hydrated all year long, but especially during the summer months. Get each child a colorful sports bottle of her own and refill it each morning after a thorough washing.

Y – Yogurt is much more digestible than milk for those with lactose intolerance. Now available in dairy or soy and in an assortment of flavors, yogurt makes the perfect calcium-rich treat for strong bones.

Z – Zucchini is a highly versatile vegetable with lots of kid appeal. It also offers a good dose of potassium, which may play a role in regulating heartbeat and preventing kidney stones. Bake it into bread, add it to casseroles or slice it on a pizza!