Lunch Box Superstars!

Packing a lunch box that hits all the bases when it comes to nutrition can be challenging! Stock up on these perfectly-packable foods for some much-needed energy for kids (and adults!) to make it through the day while avoiding added sugar!

 

String Cheese

Low in calories and high in protein, string cheese is the perfect snack. Not only does it come in a super lunchbox-friendly packaging, but 1 piece has just 80 calories with 6 grams of protein, plus 15% of your daily value of calcium! Kids love it because of its fun, pull apart texture and creamy, delicious taste. With low fat and different types of cheese options available, stock up in the dairy department today!

 

Nuts and Nut Butters

Nuts contain a balanced count of the essential macronutrients that make up a healthy diet – carbs, protein and healthy fats. While each nut variety contains its own unique combination of nutrients, just 1 ounce (a light handful) of mixed nuts contains around 172 calories, with 6 grams of carbs (2 g being fiber!), 6 grams of protein and 15 grams of the healthiest fats out there! Both raw and roasted nuts are good for you, but be wary of added salt and sweet seasonings in nuts and nut butters! Always check the serving size and ingredient list!

 

Greek Yogurt

If there is any challenge when it comes to lunchtime, getting enough protein is priority number 1. Not only is protein essential for healthy cell growth and development, but it also helps make you feel fuller for longer! One super food that is as protein-packed as it is delicious is Greek yogurt. With just 1 5.3 Oz. Chobani Vanilla Greek Yogurt having 13 grams of protein, this is one lunch time (breakfast too!) favorite you should reach for on a regular basis. If avoiding sugar or carbs, go for the unflavored plain varieties. (Add nuts, raisins, berries or some healthy granola to spice things up if its too plain!)

 

Pinwheels / Sandwich Roll Ups

Pinwheels are like any sandwich wrap, but more fun! Made by spreading a thick layer of filling on a tortilla, the tortilla is then rolled up and cut into ½ inch pieces. These fit perfectly in any lunchbox, are perfect for little hands and the filling possibilities are endless! Tortillas can be homemade, low carb or flavored depending on your preferences, and they come together so quickly you could prepare and freeze for up to 1 month!

Some fillings we love include:

• Turkey Ranch
• Italian
• Ham & Cheese
• Chicken Taco
• Peanut Butter & Jelly
• Chicken/Tuna/Egg Salad

 

Grapes

While all fruits are tasty and delicious, grapes made this list because they are the most lunchbox friendly fruit. Bananas are bulky, apples oxidize quickly and berries can get mushy. Coming in a variety of different forms and colors, grapes make a bright and tasty edition to any lunchbox. They are a great source of fiber, potassium and a range of vitamins and minerals. They hold up well in a lunchbox, with or without refrigeration, and are so sweet and delicious we might as well call them nature’s candy!

 

Lunch Box Tips & Tricks:

• Hold sandwiches, fruit, cheese, etc. in place with pretzels or toothpicks for older kids
• Freeze fruit the night before so it thaws out fresh by lunchtime
• Prevent food from rubbing against other flavors with cupcake wrappers
• Check all ingredients for added sugar, sodium, artificial ingredients
• Include lots of proteins and healthy fats for slow-burning energy
• Limit cookies/candy to special occasions

August 21, 2018