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(NAPSI)-As kids take to reading, writing and arithmetic,
parents today are paying increased attention to planning lunchbox menus that
will fuel their kids with energy and nutrition. America's growing concern
over childhood obesity has parents looking closely at food labels and opting
for healthy alternatives. The percentage of children and adolescents who are
defined as overweight has more than doubled since the early 1970s.
According to nutritionist Joy Bauer, author of The Complete
Idiot's Guide to Total Nutrition, "A well-planned lunchbox will ensure that
your child is at least eating healthy 25 percent of the day."
Here are creative tips from Joy to get kids eating in the
right direction:
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Always include produce! Grocery stores offer pre-washed
baby carrots, celery and other vegetables which make packing simple. Throw
in leftover veggies from the night before, such as cooked sugar snap peas or
even corn on the cob.
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Add easy-to-pack, hand-held fruits like apples, bananas or
grapes, naturally low in fat and chock-full of nutrients and fiber.
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Roll it up! On a whole-wheat tortilla, spread honey
mustard and layer sliced turkey or ham with low fat cheese and roll, roll,
roll. Younger kids may prefer to skip the bread and simply roll the lean
meats into "meat cigars" or "turkey fingers." Refrigerate the night before
and they're ready to go the next morning.
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PB&J-Update a classic. This childhood favorite is not only
tasty, but also packed with protein. Stick with thin schmears of peanut
butter on whole wheat bread, and try low sugar jelly or unsweetened
applesauce. Make them fun with popular cookie cutter shapes!
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Avoid liquid calories. Don't let your kids drink their
calories, instead save them for food. Read the label and look for zero
calorie, full-flavored waters, such as Fruit2O, for a delicious healthy
beverage that also hydrates. Consider freezing the beverages the night
before, so they remain cold and refreshing until lunchtime.
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Don't forget fun food! As long as snacks are under 200
calories and portion-appropriate, anything goes! Try low-fat granola bars,
nuts, a handful of baked chips or a fun-size chocolate bar.
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Be creative. Put a smile on your child's face with a note
from mom, a temporary tattoo or a fun riddle to figure out.
Fruit2O is created through a distilled steam process
capturing the essence of real fruit taste in pure spring water. Flavors
include orange, lemon, lime, grape, raspberry, cherry, strawberry and peach
and are available in 24-pack variety cases. Fruit2O can be purchased at
convenience stores, club stores, mass merchandise stores and supermarkets,
as well as online at www.veryfine.com. For retail locations, call
1-800-VERYFINE or visit www.Fruit2O.com.
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