Packing your own lunch is a cost-effective way to make a step toward a healthier lifestyle. It can be a great way to incorporate more fruits and veggies in your kids’ lunches, and control calories in your own. Avoiding processed foods in the cafeteria or vending machine helps you avoid excess fat and sodium, which can lead to bloating and that ‘sluggish’ feeling later in the day.
The lunch you pack should incorporate as many as the food groups as possible, which can be made easier by mixing several food groups into one item. For example, mix a few sliced strawberries and almonds into some low-fat or fat-free yogurt. This homemade “parfait” gives you half a serving of fruit, a serving of dairy, and a serving of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. Another idea is to add a sliced banana on a peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread. This would give you a serving of fruit, a serving of a heart-healthy fat, as well as two servings of whole grains. Or, use one slice of bread and half a banana for a smaller serving. Using a cookie cutter can make an ordinary sandwich more appealing for a child, try using a star or even simple circle can make a sandwich more fun!
Quick Ingredients for a Tasty Lunch:
Include an item from each of the boxes to make a healthy & satisfying lunch for you or your child!
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