Get an 'A' in back-to-school nutrition

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During summer break, healthy food and fitness often take a long vacation. For many, the vacation is ending and it's time to do some homework. Study these back-to-school tips for the start to a healthy school year. If you follow a balanced diet and stay physically active, there's no way you can't get an 'A' in back-to-school nutrition!

Don't skip breakfast! Studies show children who eat breakfast perform better in school.
If you pack a homemade lunch for your children, include a good balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat free dairy products, and lean meats and proteins.
Provide new options! Pack exotic fruits like kiwi or allow your child to pick a fun new fruit or vegetable at the grocery store. They are more likely to eat their lunch if they helped prepare it.
Reinforce cleanliness and remind your children to wash their hands before they eat or pack a moist towelette or hand sanitizer in their lunchbox.
Physical activity and exercise are important and help improve a child's health. Children should be active for at least 60 minutes a day, and adults need to be active for at least 30 minutes a day. Make exercise a family affair and get the physical activity everyone needs! Go for a weekend hike, walk the dog together, or ride your bikes after dinner.

Try this quick and easy recipe for your child's lunch or mix it up and substitute a variety of their favorite vegetables instead.

Chicken pita pocket with spinach leaves and red bell pepper.

Chicken pita sandwich

Ingredients:

1 cup baby spinach
4 ounces cooked skinless, boneless chicken
1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
2 tablespoons low-fat Italian vinaigrette
1 (6-inch) whole-grain pita, cut in half

Directions:

Combine spinach, chicken, bell pepper, and vinaigrette in a bowl; lightly toss and mix ingredients.
Cut the pita pieces in half.
Using a spoon, fill each pita half with the tossed ingredients.
Once assembled, lay them flat and pack them up for your child to enjoy during lunch.

Recipe source: http://www.health.com/health/recipe/0,,10000001983452,00.html

Posted on Tuesday, July 22, 2014 at 9:16 AM

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