Beans: For improving mood

Dramatic fluctuations in blood sugar can bring out your child’s cranky side, so choosing foods that help balance sugar levels is key to keeping kids happy and healthy. Beans are an excellent source of soluble fiber, an ingredient that regulates blood sugars and, as a result, may help soften mood swings and calm emotions. Black, pinto, kidney, and other starchy beans have a pleasant, smooth texture, so it’s easier than you may think to get picky eaters hooked. Add beans to taco-meat filling or turkey chili, or serve hummus (made from pureed garbanzo beans) as a dip for vegetables or baked chips.