AHIMSA BLOG

The Pediatrician Kitchen

Dr. M empowers parents and kids to blend the joy of cooking with the science of medicine to create a recipe for good health. Let her be your expert guide to making mealtime more mindful with tips, recipes, activities and more!

The Pediatrician Kitchen

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High Protein Snacks for Teens: The Real-Food Formula (No Powder Required)

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A pediatrician’s snack formula that hits real protein numbers with real food — base + protein + crunch, with the gram math built in.
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Are Food Dyes Bad for Kids? A Pediatrician Explains

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A pediatrician reads the real research on food dyes, ultra-processed snacks, and kids’ behavior — plus simple swaps that matter most.
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Why Does My Child Only Eat Crunchy Foods? MD Explains

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A pediatrician explains why kids prefer crunchy foods, when it’s normal, the red flags to watch, and 7 research-backed strategies.
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Smarter Snack Swaps for Kids: A Pediatrician's 3-Level Snack Method

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A pediatrician explains the difference between sports drinks and energy drinks, why most young athletes just need water, and how to handle Prime, Gatorade & caffeine.
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Kids’ Charcuterie Board: A Build-Your-Own Snack Board

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A pediatrician’s build-your-own kids’ charcuterie board — a fun summer activity where kids assemble (and actually eat!) a balanced snack board. One formula, endless boards.
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Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks: A Pediatrician's Easy Real-Fruit Recipe

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A pediatrician’s easy homemade fruit snacks made with real fruit — the no-shame level-up for packaged gummies. One build-your-own formula, endless flavors.
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Sports Drinks vs. Energy Drinks for Young Athletes

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A pediatrician explains the difference between sports drinks and energy drinks, why most young athletes just need water, and how to handle Prime, Gatorade & caffeine.
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Is My Child a Picky Eater, or Something More?

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A pediatrician explains when picky eating is normal, when it may be something more, and how to know when to ask for help — with warmth, not alarm.
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The Fastest Way to Reduce Plastic Exposure Starts at Mealtime

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

A new randomized trial found a low-plastic diet cut harmful plastic chemicals up to 60% in 7 days. A pediatrician explains why food contact matters most for kids.

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