HEALTHY SCHOOL LUNCH IDEAS

ΗEATTHΥ SCHOOL LUNCH IDEAS FOR ΥOUR ΡICKΥ ΕΑΓER Instead of whole fruit, pack frozen smoothies I They will be soft enough to eat by lunch Offer different bread choices I Bagels, wraps, and English muffins all work well Pack small items to let kids assemble snacks themselves 1 Choose string cheese, bite-sized veggies, and small cuts of lean meats FOR YOUR VEGETARIAN Always include a protein source I Cheese, nut butters, or tofu ALMOND BUTTER Try imitation meats I Veggie hot dogs, chicken nuggets, and lunchmeat are good choices Make pasta salad for a balanced meal Add tofu chunks and veggies to spiral pasta FOR YOUR GLUTΓ ΕN-FREE Ε ΑΤΕR Invest in gluten-free bread products I Sliced bread, wraps, and more will make packing lunches easier GLUTEN FREE Think outside the sandwich I Pack gluten-free soup in a thermos or a salad with protein TUNA Go for a high-protein lunch Choose low-fat cheese, tuna, or lunchmeat, and add fruits and veggies with dip FOR YOUR HIGH SCHOOLER Pack pita sandwiches 1 Pack with a protein source and plenty of veggies Try homemade yogurt parfaits 1 Use low-fat Greek yogurt plus dried fruits and granola Get the right portion sizes I Help your teen skip cafeteria temptations by packing generous portions FOR ALL OF YOUR CHILDREN Provide a water bottle instead of juice boxes or sodas Include a fruit and veggie in every lunch Get your child involved in picking out lunch favorites Avoid high-sugar items that can lead to energy slumps LEE'S SUMMIT PHYSICIANS GROUP www.PEDIATRICIANSLEESSUMMIT.NET Sources: www.bonappetit.com/recipes/family-meals/slideshow/25-quick-and-easy-school-lunc hes-to-pack-for-your-kids/?slide=1 www.celiaccentral.org/rudisrecipes/lunch/ www.petakids.com/parents/vegan-lunch-pack/ www.simplebites.net/balanced-school-lunches-for-picky-eaters/ www.seventeen.com/life/food-recipes/advice/g2134/make-over-school-lunch/?slide=5