Açaí Bowl
Acai berries are a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3s. These super berries are conveniently available in freeze-dried, powdered form, and frozen puree, which is perfect to go right into a smoothie!
Acai bowls are highly customizable! You can sprinkle the top with all kinds of different toppings according to your child’s sensory preferences and nutritional needs. Try unsweetened coconut, whole blueberries, chia seeds, sliced almonds, banana slices, and more!
Due to the high fiber content in this recipe, this is a great meal for kids struggling with constipation.
Smoothies can be a great way to increase nutrient intake for picky eaters! Many children who are picky eaters have texture sensitivity. Since smoothies offer a smooth and consistent texture, they can be a nutritious addition to your child’s diet. If your child is texture-averse and is hesitant about trying this as a bowl with toppings, try it as a traditional smoothie with a straw for a nutrient-packed treat with a smooth consistency.
Ingredients
1 frozen banana (or sub 1 cup cauliflower rice)
1 cup frozen berries
1 tbsp acai powder
You can also use frozen acai packets (I recommend buying at Sprouts or Whole Foods instead of ordering online). If you do this, the recipe will change a bit, so adjust the almond milk accordingly.
1 cup almond milk, unsweetened (see recipe here)
Toppings: hemp seeds, chia seeds, or fruit of choice (I love berries and sliced bananas!)
Optional Boosters:
Want an extra omega boost? Add 1 tbsp ground flax, hemp seeds, nut/seed butter, or frozen/fresh avocado
Need a protein boost? Add 1 scoop collagen powder or other protein powder
Love chocolate and antioxidants? Add 1 tsp cacao powder
Want an extra boost of veggies? Add 1/4 cup frozen cauliflower rice, frozen shredded zucchini, or a handful of frozen kale or spinach
Note: frozen will help maintain the consistency of the smoothie
For picky eaters, you might not start with adding veggies, just start with the basics and work your way up!
Certain supplements may be able to mix in smoothies, though be cautious as mixing a supplement in a highly nutritious food could cause a picky eater to lose the food/lose trust if it changes the taste drastically. Try it yourself before serving to your child and start with an extremely small amount and work your way up.
My preferred method to get kids to take supplements is the syringe method.
Note: Most ingredients above are linked to items at Thrive Market for your convenience. Sign up with this link to get 30% off your first order.
A note on ingredient quality: If possible, choose ingredients that are organic and non-GMO. Stores such as Sprouts, Natural Grocers, Whole Foods, and other health food stores can help finding higher-quality ingredients. If access to higher quality ingredients isn't an option for you, choose the best option that is available to you locally.
Materials
A high-powered blender like a Vitamix
Directions
Add banana, berries, acai powder, and nut milk to high powered blender and blend until well-mixed
If too runny, add more frozen bananas or berries until thickened. If too thick, add a bit more almond milk until it mixes well.
Top with toppings of choice. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Makes 1 Serving
Calories: 300 | Protein: 4 grams | Fiber: 8 grams | Carbohydrates: 54 grams | Fat: 10 grams | Sugars: 29 grams
