As parents, finding snacks that kids actually want to eat — and that you feel good about — can feel like a constant battle. But swapping out common processed snacks for cleaner, more natural options is easier than you think. Here are some simple, effective swaps that help you ditch the junk without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

Ditch These... and Try These Instead!

• Chewy granola bars → Larabar bars
  Many chewy bars are loaded with added sugars and artificial ingredients. Larabars are made from just a few whole-food ingredients like nuts and fruit, giving your child natural energy without the extras.
• Coke and sugary sodas → Zevia zero calorie soda
  Zevia offers fizzy, fun flavors sweetened with stevia instead of sugar or artificial sweeteners — perfect for kids who love bubbles but not the sugar crash.
• M&M’s and candy → Unreal candy
  Unreal makes better-for-you candies that skip artificial colors and flavors while still satisfying a sweet tooth. They’re a kinder treat alternative to traditional candy.
• Lay’s potato chips → Siete grain-free chips
  Siete chips are made from clean, grain-free ingredients with simple seasonings, offering crunch without the processed oils and additives found in many mainstream chips.
• Jack Link’s jerky → Chomps meat sticks
  For a protein-packed snack, switch from conventional jerky brands that can be high in preservatives and sugars to Chomps sticks, which use simple, clean ingredients and no added nitrates and are made with grass-fed beef

Why These Swaps Matter

Processed snacks often include ingredients that can cause energy crashes, digestive upset, or inflammation—especially in kids who are sensitive or still developing their immune systems. Choosing real-food-based snacks with minimal processing supports steady energy, healthy digestion, and better focus throughout the day.

Tips for Making Snack Swaps Stick

• Start small: Swap one snack at a time to help your child adjust gradually.
• Keep favorites handy: Having the healthier options easily accessible increases the chances they’ll choose them.
• Get kids involved: Let them pick new snacks to try at the store or online—they’re more likely to eat what they help choose!

Snack Smarter, Feel Better

Making smarter snack choices doesn’t have to be complicated. These swaps are easy, tasty, and kid-approved ways to upgrade your child’s snack game — without feeling like a sacrifice.

One of my favorite places to find these better-for-you snacks is Thrive Market. They make it so easy to shop for options that are gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free, dye free, and so much more — all in one place, without having to read every label in the store aisle.

You can save 40% + get a free gift when you shop through our link: http://thrv.me/uTQgng

Got a favorite swap or snack hack? I’d love to hear what works for your family!

Back-to-School Bundle: Set Your Child Up for a Healthy, Successful Year

The start of a new school year brings excitement and new challenges for kids—and their health plays a huge role in how well they learn, focus, and thrive throughout the day. That’s why we’ve designed our Back-to-School Bundle to help parents uncover hidden factors that may be impacting their child’s energy, mood, digestion, and immunity—so you can feel confident your child is supported from the inside out.

What’s Included?

• Immuno Food Allergy Kit: This easy-to-use, at-home test screens for food sensitivities and allergies that often go unnoticed but can contribute to digestive discomfort, skin issues, brain fog, or behavioral challenges. Understanding your child’s unique immune triggers allows us to make informed recommendations to reduce inflammation and promote optimal health.
• Food Education Appointment: In a personalized session with Dr. Lena, you’ll review the test results in detail and develop a tailored nutrition plan focused on nourishing your child’s body with the right foods to support digestion, immune function, and steady energy. You’ll also receive practical guidance on snack swaps, mealtime strategies, and lifestyle tips that fit your family’s needs.

Why This Matters

Many kids struggle with symptoms linked to hidden food sensitivities that impact their ability to focus, sleep well, or maintain steady energy—problems that often get overlooked or misdiagnosed. By identifying and addressing these issues early, you can help your child feel better physically and emotionally, improve their school performance, and reduce the need for medications or supplements down the line.

Invest in Their Health Today

Our Back-to-School Bundle is offered at a special rate of $499 ($650 value!), a valuable investment in your child’s wellbeing and long-term success.

Ready to get started? Schedule your back to school bundle with Dr. Lena today to reserve your bundle and take the first step toward a healthier, happier school year for your child.

If you have questions or want to learn more before booking, we’re here to help—just give our office a call or send us a message anytime!