Snacking can be as critical for busy parents as it is for growing babies. Some ideas for keeping it healthy:

Have 'em on hand. When you organize the diaper bag for an outing, consider packing nutritious, easy-to-carry snacks for yourself so they're right within reach. Always have your kitchen stocked with healthy, portable foods: That way you won't have to stop and reinvent the wheel before every nibble or, worse, resort to a vending machine or fast food.

Chew on these. Some great choices: energy bars, fresh fruit, whole-grain cereal, crackers with cheese, raw vegetables (plain or with a hummus dip), cups of yogurt, baked chips and salsa. Blend fresh or frozen fruit, milk, and yogurt together for a nutrient-packed, satisfying shake.

Limit caffeine. This is particularly important if you're breastfeeding. Drink plenty of water – plain, fizzy, or fortified – to keep hydrated, or make your own "designer water" by adding a splash of fruit juice or a twist of lemon or orange. Herbal teas, hot or iced, come in countless refreshing flavors.

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