News from the Nurse: Prepackaged Food

Prepackaged lunches for kids are popular and convenient, but they’re also expensive and can be less than nutritious. Instead, create your own packable lunch using healthier ingredients. Consider these components and pack them in plastic containers, re-sealable plastic bags, or colorful plastic wrap:

  • 1⁄2 cup nuts, sunflower seeds, chickpeas, or edamame (soy beans in the pod)
  • cold-cut roll ups (lean turkey, ham, or roast beef; lower-fat cheeses; tofu and flour tortillas)
  • cold pizza (shredded mozzarella cheese; pizza sauce; flour or corn tortilla, English muffin, or mini pizza shell)
  • cracker sandwiches (whole-grain crackers filled with cream cheese or peanut butter and jelly)
  • peanut butter and celery sticks
  • veggie sticks with low-fat dip, hummus or dressing
  • 100% fruit juice box and water is just as important to help flush toxins and stay hydrated
  • optional dessert (choose one): flavored gelatin, pudding, oatmeal raisin cookie, graham crackers, or fresh fruit

    Try to involve your kids in the process of making lunches together so that healthier eating can become a goal they can strive for and teaches them these good tips.     (read more … Prepackaged_Lunches.pdf )