I don’t know about your kids, but mine typically want a popsicle at the pool. Are they healthy? Well, no. They tend to be sugar water with artificial color to boot. And yes, you can make them healthier at home, but they obviously don't travel well. So I do let my kids have popsicles at the pool on occasion; it is a part of summer after all.

At the store, which popsicles are the best?

• Look for real fruit bars. There are actually many brands. Examples:


• Edy’s Fruit Bars (some flavors come with all natural color and flavor)


• Private Selection (some flavors come with all natural color and flavor)


• Popsicle (Dora the explorer) brand actually comes with no artificial flavor or color as well

The bottom line: Popsicles should be enjoyed in moderation. Even the sugar water type with artificial everything can fit into a healthy diet. Most of our fluid needs should be meet with water, milk, juice and healthy foods, but up to 8 ounces a day can be consumed in the form of calorically sweetened beverages without nutrients. This is where the popsicle fits in. So, as always, moderation is the key.

Have a refreshing summer!

Lemon Smoothie Pop

The refreshing taste of lemon in a yogurt pop….perfect for a hot summer day.

6 ounces lemon yogurt
½ cup fat free milk
¼ cup ice
2 Tbs. lemonade mix of choice

Combine all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth (30 seconds). Pour into 2 ounce Popsicle molds. Freeze for at least 2 hours.

Yield: 4 servings
Nutrition Breakdown: Calories 70, Fat 0.5g, Cholesterol 5mg, Carbohydrate 14g, Sodium 50mg, Protein 3g.
Percent Daily Value: 10% Calcium, 2% Vitamin A, 4% Vitamin C, 0% Iron
Carbohydrate Choices: 1 Carbohydrate Choice
Diabetes Exchange Values: ½ Fruit, ½ Other Carbohydrate