We understand that your child might not always want to eat their fruits and veggies – especially if they’re in pain due to arthritis

You can’t just tell your child that some foods will reduce inflammation, support bone health, and give an immune system boost, and that’s how they can feel better. Kids don’t work like that, and we get it! With these fun food ideas below found at the local farmers market, your child will maintain a well-balanced diet and possibly alleviate some of some pain.

• Fish Sticks – (salmon, tuna, and herring) Coat the outside with whole grain bread crumbs and fry in grape seed oil for a delicious treat that’s jammed packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
• Lima Beans – high in protein, low in fat, bunches of Omega-3s and stuffed with fiber. Read the book A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon to get your little one excited to eat these beans.
• Red fruits like strawberries, cherries, and raspberries– have anthocyanins which have a built-in anti-inflammatory effect.  Build these berries into fun shapes your child will love. There are always ideas on Pinterest!
• Cheese and milk – contain loads of calcium and vitamin D, which will help support bone health. Tell your child you’re making a “science experiment” and teach them how to build a smoothie – milk-based! Is lactose intolerant? Check out green veggies, like spinach, for a source of vitamin D.
• Broccoli – looks like a tiny tree and contains key nutrients that help slow the progression of osteoporosis such as vitamin K, vitamin C, calcium, and sulforaphane.
• Oranges can be annoying, but help maintain joints and prevent inflammation. Please make sure your child is mature enough to handle the content from this you-tube link. Very funny, oddly educational, and a little strange.
• Grain – Use a fun dinosaur or heart sandwich shape cutter to get your child to eat some grains and become heart-healthy. 

More suggestions and helpful hints from Arthritis.org. Food can be fun and delicious as well as nutritious.