As your busy summer schedules transition from fun in the sun to school work and sports, it is important to keep in mind that your children's bodies are growing and need proper nutrition not only at home but also at school throughout the year. Although the schools are now offering nutritious lunch options, most students will choose the least healthy: do corn dogs, tater tots, and chocolate milk sound familiar? Rather than having your child{ren} choose an unhealthy meal, try packing them a lunch with healthy, fun, and delicious options. Here are some simple nutritious ideas to keep your kids healthy through the most important time of their physical and mental development. Don't forget to keep some of these options in mind for yourself and after-school snacks.
1. Water: Dehydration contributes to most of one's tiredness throughout the day. It is important to stay hydrated with pure water to improve mental functioning and energy levels. Tip: Have your kids pick out a fun water bottle. Freeze their water to help keep their sack lunch nice and cool as well as having an ice cold water to drink.
2. Whole Grains: Complex carbohydrates keep your child's energy levels elevated longer than simple carbohydrates and allows them to feel fuller longer {white bread vs. whole wheat/whole grain}. Tip: Oatmeal, Whole Grain Cereals, Whole Wheat Bread/Tortilla's, Granola Bars are just some examples.
3. Protein: Protein helps increase your child's metabolism and aids in muscle growth, so it is important to include it in each meal and snack. Lean meats such as chicken, turkey, ham or tofu will provide ample protein for their bodies to grow to their full potential. Tips: Fried and processed meats {chicken nuggets and corn dogs} do not provide the quality protein your children need.
4. Snacks: It is important to have both carbohydrates and protein in a snack. Keep in mind that snacks are just as important as a meal. Having a healthy snack between meals will allow your child's metabolism and energy levels to stay elevated during those sleepy hours of the day. Tip: Instead of having simple sugars between meals, try including fruit/vegetables, yogurt, string cheese, peanut butter, rice cakes, and granola bars.
5. Color: There should be a fun variety of colors in your child's meal. Include different colored fruits and vegetables that they will look forward to eating in a healthy packed lunch. Tip: The more color you include, the more you know your child in eating properly and nutritiously!
