It’s the summer season and my kids are all about hotdogs.  I’m buying turkey hotdogs–is that better?

My answer goes back to natural vs. artificial foods, with hotdogs being a processed meat that’s very high in sodium.  Growing up I loved hotdogs on special occasions, and since summers are all about BBQs, hot dogs and hamburgers are OK every once in a while for a treat.  However, they should not be on the weekly family menu.  Instead, try making kebabs with veggies and chicken or shrimp as something fun to the do with the kids–they’re tasty and all natural too!  Looking for a recipe?  Check out my awesome Citrus and Herb Shrimp Kebabs from Appetite for Life.

– Stacey Antine, MS, RD, author, Appetite for Life, founder, HealthBarn USA, co-host, Family Food Expert Internet Radio Show, and recognized as top 10 dietitians nationally by Today’s Dietitian magazine for her work with HealthBarn USA.

What puzzles you about keeping your family healthy?  Tell us what’s on your mind by emailing [email protected].  Stacey will answer those questions here weekly.