As your children are going back to school, many Mamalettes may be wondering what they can pack in lunch boxes for their children
1. Carbohydrates With Protein
Potatoes and yams are examples starchy foods that are good for a growing child. There are a good source of energy because they contain fibre, calcium and iron. It is ideal to balance a meal of yam or potato with fish, eggs, meat etc.
Other examples of carbohydrates that you can include in your child’s lunch box include rice, sweet potatoes, spaghetti etc. These are good source of energy because they contain fibre, calcium and iron. And if you are in a rush, noodles or spaghetti is the best choice, fast to cook and filling.
Most Nigerian children love noodles. While noodles might not be the healthiest thing to feed your children as they are high in saturated fat, you can make this meal healthy by adding vegetables like onions, peppers and carrots to it. Egg or any other type of protein is good and should be included in your child’s meals. Adding protein to your child’s meal can increase the level of their brain function by helping them maintain concentration levels. Many protein sources also contain vitamins and minerals that keep them healthy.
2. Fruit and vegetables
Children need fruits and vegetables to obtain vital nutrients that help muscles to heal and fight off infections. Fruits such as oranges and tangerines are high in vitamin C that provides antioxidants to help kids avoid many germs. Apples and carrots provide fibre to help kids maintain healthy bowel movements.
3. Beverages and water
To pack a healthy lunch box for your child, never send in soft drinks as a beverage. Ideal drink choices for your child include water, 100-percent fruit juice, yoghurt drink and milk.
In addition to food, many mothers also pack biscuits, chocolate etc. in their children’s lunch boxes.
You can make your own list of what to combine for their lunch but whatever you do, make sure it’s healthy, nutritious and balanced diet and that it will still be edible during lunch.
Helpful? Mamalettes what do you pack into your child’s lunch box? Let’s reason together! Visit our forum to post your comments.
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