It’s time to start thinking about packing healthy lunches and snacks for your kids to take to school.
Canadian Research Chair in Nutrition and Metabolism at the University of Toronto, Doctor David Jenkins says the most important choice is fresh fruit.
Jenkins says it’s important to choose fruits that are in season if possible and make it interesting by putting it in a fruit salad for lunch or a smoothie for breakfast.
He also recommends using whole grain breads with nut butters such s almond or hazelnut that not as many people may be allergic to or sneak in some lettuce and grated carrots on a meat sandwich to hide the veggies.
Doctor Jenkins says it’s important to pack a light lunch so kids aren’t sleepy in the afternoon.
Another healthy choice, according to Doctor Jenkins, is soup in a thermos particularly vegetable or legume soups.
Jenkins tells us parents should themselves eat healthy food at home in front of the kids to set a good example.
He says if kids get the idea that pop, chips and candy are just for kids, then they will make healthier choices as they get older.