So, I’ve finally surrendered and am getting our family ready to go “back to school.” (Ugh!)
In that spirit, I thought I’d share some “food for thought” with fellow parents.
Did you know that studies have strongly linked the quality of school lunch to student performance?
One of the things often overlooked in a child’s education and academic performance is the food that they eat.
Without the proper nutrition, kids can’t maintain focus throughout the day, and retaining information soon becomes a struggle. It’s clear that what’s in your child’s lunchbox really matters!
Here are five healthy treats to pack in that lunchbox. And, the best news? Your kids will love them!
1. Yogurt
Yogurt is full of vital nutrients kids need to be healthy.
Calcium is essential for proper development. Eight ounces of yogurt has more calcium than 8 ounces of milk.
Yogurt also has important B vitamins and carbohydrates to keep kids going throughout the day. It’s also a good source of probiotics – the living organisms that help regulate the digestive system.
Also, be sure to check the label, as some flavored yogurts can be high in sugar. Also, Greek yogurt is the healthiest, but some kids hate the taste!
2. Berries
Berries are a great superfood for kids. Not only are they delicious, they are full of nutritional goodness.
Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries have antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium. They can be served freeze-dried as a healthy snack or poured into yogurt and oatmeals. Berries also help fight off sugar cravings, getting children in the habit of staying away from unhealthy foods.
3. Bananas (The Superfood for Kids and Minions!)
Ever since the release of the Despicable Me and Minion movies, bananas have become a favorite treat for kids everywhere. This is great news for parents, making it easy to sell kids on the benefits of healthy eating.
Bananas are loaded with potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure and heart rhythm. They are also a source of prebiotics. These compounds help the body absorb other nutrients, improving the health benefits of the other foods on this list.
Delicious as a stand alone snack, bananas can also be mixed with veggie superfoods to make delicious smoothies!
4. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a great addition to any lunchbox. A tablespoon provides significant protein, B vitamins, and magnesium – all hugely important for energy.
Opt for natural peanut butter though, as the processed kinds are high in sugar. Sure, you might have to stir it, but hey; that’s good exercise!
5. Watermelon
Watermelon might be the official food of summer, but it’s also great to take to school! It has plenty of vitamins C and A, along with antioxidants and amino acids.
Hydration is another great benefit. Watermelons are 92% water, meaning they’ll l refresh a child after recess or in a hot lunch room.
There are also many different ways to serve it, so boredom won’t become a problem!
You’re a Parenting Rock Star
As we all know, parenting is a 24/7 responsibility. Today, parents are required to learn about pop culture, nutrition, fashion, and Spongebob, amongst a whole host of other things!
Getting things right all of the time can be difficult, and sometimes the pressure can be overwhelming.
But don’t worry. You’re rocking this parenting thing. How do we know? Because if you’ve read this far, you obviously want the best for your child; and nobody can ask any more than that.
Got any healthy and tasty lunchbox suggestions? Let us know in the comments below!
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