July 2014

Summer vacation and warm weather  brings thirsty kids to the kitchen looking for something to drink. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly advises against energy drinks for children and adolescents because of high amounts of caffeine and other stimulants. Doctors only advise sports drinks during or after rigorous exercise because of the sugar content (concern for obesity and dental caries). What can we do to keep kids hydrated and satisfied during the active summer months? 1. Water, water and more water! Mineral waters are especially helpful on those hot, active days when kids need to replenish electrolytes lost during vigorous play. The Kids Health website: http://goo.gl/u4ZA99 gives the perfect explanation for children, telling them why water is important and how much they should be drinking. 2. Healthier sports drinks. For those hottest days when kids are active outside, you can make healthy

Did you know that in 1984 President Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month? He also named the third Sunday as National Ice Cream Day!  On Sunday, July 20th, Valley Natural Foods will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of National Ice Cream Day with a blowout 20% off sale on all of its ice cream brands!* Ice cream is a wonderful treat in the summer and we have many local brands to try, including some new ones and many gluten free and/or dairy-free varieties too. *While supplies last. No rain checks. Local Ice Cream LUV Ice Cream Made locally in St. Paul, LUV Ice Creams’ owners, Susanna and Ilya, pride themselves in making sugar-free, gluten-free ice cream, naturally sweetened with stevia that still tastes great with wholesome,  natural and certified organic ingredients. They also make vegan, dairy-free options too.  Valley Natural Foods carries their