Exploits Valley Minor Hockey Association

Healthy Food Policy

 

Background

The emphasis in minor hockey is on having fun, developing skills, enhancing confidence and being physically active.  The promotion of healthy eating goes hand in hand with the promotion of physical activity.  Promoting healthy food at minor hockey functions, such as tournaments and fun days, sends a positive message to children and parents about nutrition and presents coaches, leaders and parents with the opportunity to positively influence children’s eating habits.

Key Points

·        The Exploits Valley Minor Hockey Association (EVMHA) will actively promote healthy eating through the provision of healthy food choices at minor hockey events, including tournaments and fun days. 

·        Nutritionally challenged foods can be provided in combination with healthy choices; however, there should be a greater emphasis on healthy foods choices.

·        Healthy food choices should be available at the canteen such as water, unsweetened juice and lower fat snack choices.

·        Attention should be paid to food allergies, especially those which are life-threatening.

Examples of Healthy Food Choices

 

Vegetables and Fruits

Unsweetened fruit and vegetable juices

Fresh fruit and vegetables

Dried fruit (e.g. raisins, cranberries)

100% fruit leathers

100% vegetable bars

100% fruit juice bars, unsweetened

 

Milk Products

White milk (2%, 1% or skim)

Chocolate milk (2%, 1% or skim)

Hot chocolate

Yogurt in containers or tubes (2% MF or less)

Yogurt drinks

Cheese strings (20% or less MF )

Cheese hard (20% or less MF)

Smoothies (milk or yogurt with unsweetened fruit)

  Meat and Alternates

Plain or spiced nuts (depending on allergies)

Seeds

 

Grain Products

Cereals (non-sugar coated, non-granola)

Whole grain breads

Low fat crackers

Cereal bars (should be less than 5 grams of fat per serving)

Granola bars (should be less than 5 grams of fat per serving, avoid chocolate covered)

Pretzels

 

Other

Sandwiches (made with whole grain breads and low fat fillings)

Trail mix (depending on allergies)