Most kids have headed back to school. Our kids started last week, even though I feel our summer was far too short and cold. In classrooms all over the country are embarking on a new year of academics and activities. Parents like myself know the importance of preparing snacks and lunches that will keep our kids fueled to get them through their busiest days. Luckily, there are a handful of better-for-you snack, meal and beverage options on the market that offer nutritional benefits and taste that kids love and parents can feel great about serving. I am happy 4 easy tips to fuel your kids from RD Mitzi Dulan,
Take your child to the grocery store with you at the beginning of the school year and allow them to choose 2-3 of their favorite fruits to have for their lunches or after school snack. Fruit is important for kids to properly fuel up and making kids part of the decision-making process is a great way to create healthy habits and try new foods!
Try incorporating protein into your kid’s lunch and snacks. Protein is important to a child’s diet to help them grow, build muscle and keep their immune system strong. Mitzi recommends new Juicy Juice + Protein, one of the first juice-protein blends on the market for kids, as an after-school for snack for busy days.
Make sure you include a variety of quality carbs, healthy fats, protein and fiber into your child’s after school snacks for optimal fueling. One of my favorites for kids – my teens love it too – are peanut butter (or almond butter) and banana sandwiches with honey on whole wheat bread. Pro Tip: it’s also delicious toasted!
Lower-sugar juice options are ideal to avoid consuming too much sugar while also hydrating in a tasty way. A favorite of my two girls is new Juicy Juice Fruitifuls Organic, which is made with 45% less sugar than the leading juice while still providing half a cup of fruit in each 8 oz serving. It works well paired with nutritious meals before, during or after the school day.
The new Juicy Juice Fruitifuls Organic, which is made with 45% less sugar than the leading juice, provides a half a cup of fruit in each 8 oz serving and is a better-for-you option that can be paired with meals before, during or after the school day. Check out Juicy Waters, Juicy Juice + Protein and Fruitifuls Organic. Please share some of your favorite tips for kid’s snacks and lunches in the comments.
