9 Healthy Lunchbox Tips

Recommendations to help make lunchboxes healthier for the new school year:

* Choose whole-grain bread for sandwiches for added fiber
* Choose 100% juice or low-fat milk containers instead of sodas or energy drinks
* Add calcium-rich low-fat string cheese and low-fat yogurt for strong bones
* Replace potato chips with unsalted crackers or popcorn
* Use peanut butter without added sugar or oil and whole-fruit preserves in your PB&J sandwiches
* Always add fresh fruit -- kids should eat at least one piece per day. Among other benefits it will help them appreciate the taste of natural sugars
* Add at least one vegetable (celery sticks, baby carrots, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, etc.)
* Choose tuna, lean chicken, or turkey for sandwiches instead of corned beef or bologna
* Keep mayonnaise on sandwiches to a minimum

Also, let your child participate in the lunchbox preparation by letting them make some choices as well -- like choosing which vegetable or fruit to add. And lastly, don't forget to regularly sneak a little note of encouragement into the box. This thoughtful little gesture will be remembered for a lifetime.




This article was taken from: food.yahoo