Read the Label

Just because something is labeled "all natural" or contains 100 percent of a daily vitamin or "extra calcium" doesn't mean that it's nutritious. For example, SunnyD is labeled a "citrus drink" and is often found next to orange juice in the grocery store. It even contains 100 percent of a child's daily Vitamin C requirement. But the product contains a very small percentage of actual fruit juice and packs a walloping 27 grams of sugar, in the form of high fructose corn syrup, in every serving. It's basically orange sugar water.

The same goes for many of the new whole grain breakfast cereals like whole grain Cocoa Puffs and Lucky Charms. Dr. Shulman says, "Just because an item lists whole grain, does not mean it is healthier. Sugar cereals such as these are still loaded with sugar, even if they do contain more fiber from the whole grains used." Dr. Nestle calls them a bowl of "low-fat cookies."

With all the misleading advertising, how's a parent supposed to know what constitutes a healthy snack for her children? Remember these simple guidelines:

1. If your grandmother wouldn't recognize it as a food eaten in her day, it's probably high processed and junky.
2. If a food is wrapped in a wrapper that crinkles, it's probably not a great idea.
3. If the snack comes in colors not found in nature—neon green, arctic blue, bright orange, shocking pink, rainbows, polka dots, or stripes—consider a piece of fruit instead!