by Elizabeth Hall, MS, RDN, LDN     Registered Dietitian, K-VA-T Food Stores

Moms everywhere deserve special treatment on Mother’s Day. Your mom wants you to be healthy, so planning some healthy activities for Mother’s Day could be a great way to celebrate.

1. Cook Brunch

Celebrate mom by serving up a nutritious and delicious Sunday brunch. Look for recipes that are both healthy and easy for you, and the kids, to prepare. Make as many dishes ahead of time as possible, so the meal will be fun and more relaxing for your family. Get creative and decorate the table with fresh flowers and a thoughtful card for mom. For quick and easy recipes, check out the Meal and Recipe Center at foodcity.com.

2. Plan a Picnic

If the weather is nice, pack up your meal and head outside for a picnic. Whether you are in your backyard or in a park, a picnic basket full of mom’s favorite foods will help her relax and enjoy nature. Being outside has been shown to improve mental health and also encourages physical activity. There are lots of grab-and-go options at the grocery store to make your picnic even easier. Pick up a cheese tray with gourmet crackers or a package of hummus with pita chips paired with fruits and vegetables for a quick and balanced meal.

3. Add Sweet Treats

Mom will appreciate something sweet on Mother’s Day, but instead of buying regular chocolate, buy dark chocolate, which is higher in anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Cocoa contains healthy flavonoids that some studies show may support heart health. Other flavonoid-rich foods you might add to mom’s dessert basket include apples, red wine, tea, and cranberries.

What better way to mark mom’s special day than by showing her you care about her health and wellbeing, just like she cares about you!