The weather is getting cooler and leaves are already falling, which means school is back in session. With school starting comes waking up early to pack the kids’ lunches. Do they like what you pack for them? Are they trading it away in the cafeteria? Is it a healthy lunch?
GROCERY SHOPPING
Consider bringing your children along when you go food shopping. Having them pick out things they like will ensure that they are eating their lunches at noon. Give them guidelines when they do the selecting. Have them choose fresh fruit in the produce section, or even a vegetable to try. Your example of eating healthy is the most positive lesson.
PACKING the LUNCH
Use whole grain bread or whole wheat pita pockets instead of white bread for sandwiches. When choosing deli meats, avoid ones with higher fat content like salami and bologna. Instead, stick with lean or fat free cuts of turkey, roast beef or ham. There are also alternatives to high fat and calorie peanut butter for the PBJ lovers, so read the labels. Some natural spreads include almond butter. Choose jams with half the sugar, or add banana slices.
For sides, pack celery or carrot sticks with a small container of low fat salad dressing for dipping. Low sodium pretzels or popcorn are good replacements for potato chips. Be creative for dessert with graham crackers, oatmeal raisin cookies and of course, fruit!
Avoid packing soda pop or energy drinks. Opt for 100% fruit juices, low fat or skim milk, or water. Soda and sugary fruit drinks can damage teeth and cause cavities.
For more information on healthy foods for lunch or on the go, visit www.ada/public/media/releases/0902_release07.asp
