Healthy lunch box tips from pediatricianChris Magryta
• Avoid any food package that has a cartoon character on it. They are more likely to be full of sugar, dyes and unhealthy levels of bad fats.
• When it comes to selecting snack foods for lunch boxes, go for vegetables, nuts, fruits or bars.
• Try to select whole fruit that’s in season: apple or peach slices, bananas, etc.
• If using packaged fruit, avoid fruits in syrup.
• Bars should be high in fiber (more than 4 grams) and lower in sugar. Compare bars and aim for lowest sugar and no trans fats.
• When choosing yogurt, realize that many kinds are loaded with sugar, almost like ice cream. Opt for plain Greek-style and add your own fruit or granola to it.
• Vegetables with dip are a good choice, like carrots and hummus or honey mustard.
• For sandwiches, choose whole grain bread and if you’re using meat, make it real: i.e., chicken breast cut and layered on bread (not deli slices).
• Soups are fantastic.
• Wild Alaska makes a great sandwich (my kids’ favorite).