NOVA Kids in Motion believes in the importance of healthy kids. One vital aspect of children’s health is fun, active workouts that get them moving! The passion we share with our programs is teaching children how to enjoy being active so they can live long, healthy lives – and the battle is half won when we accomplish this. The other vital ingredient is diet. A child’s diet is critical to emotional and physical health, as we know the mind and body are connected and each affects the other.
There are many boxed items for sale today that make packing very convenient, however, the sodium, fat, calories, and saturated fat in these items make is a less than healthy choice. These foods are usually void of nutrients that whole foods contain and without these nutrients the body and mind can break down. Healthy lunches for children should contain a vegetable, fruit, lean protein, whole grain, and a plant based healthy fat. Here are some ideas for each:
Vegetables:
- Broccoli or cauliflower
- Sliced peppers
- Cucumber slices
- Baby carrots – lightly cooked
- Lettuce and tomato on sandwiches
Pack veggies with almond butter, bean dip, salsa, or hummus – kids love dip!
Fruits:
- Grapes
- Cherries
- Peeled orange
- Banana
- Dried fruit
Bananas can be decorated with a message with a marker on the outer peel
Whole Grains:
- Popcorn
- Whole Grain pita pizza
- Whole grain crackers
- Whole grain bread for sandwiches
Lean Protein:
- Organic string cheese
- Almond butter (with dried fruit mixed in)
- Turkey
- Tuna
- Hard boiled eggs
- Feta cheese
- Bean Dip
Plant Based Healthy Fats:
- Olive oil
- Almond butter
- Avocado
- Nuts
- Seeds
For more healthy lunch ideas:
July 23, 2012