One of the biggest challenges families face is maintaining their healthy nutrition goals as kids head back to school and busy, on-the-go after-school activities take priority over sit-down family dinners. As the owner of Strong By Intention, clients often ask for help with creating healthy lunches and nutritionally balanced (and quick) dinners that everyone will love.
I'll let you in on a little secret. Not only is it possible to eat healthy, there is a strong possibility that your kids will never ask for pre-packaged meals again.
The secret to creating healthier versions of your kids' favorite packaged meals starts with giving them some control.
Kids feel empowered and tend to eat healthier when they have a vote in what they're eating. You'll be shocked at what they'll choose when they get to build it themselves.
The key is establishing basic guidelines while allowing creativity. Set one simple rule: every lunch needs a protein, a carb, and a fruit or vegetable. Then let each family member DIY their lunch within these parameters.
Start at the grocery store's deli counter for minimally processed proteins and cheeses. Pre-sliced cheeses from the deli make assembly easy while avoiding more processed cheese products. Skip the salami, bologna, and pepperoni in favor of whole sliced turkey or roast beef. Dierberg’s deli offers meat options without high fructose corn syrup, added sweeteners, MSG, artificial colors, trans fats, or artificial flavors.
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Whatever your household rules are, make sure to have everyone fill up on a fruit and or a vegetable. In my household, the kids gravitate more towards fruit. I'm okay with that. Dierbergs makes it incredibly easy to grab a variety of fruits and veggies that are already prepared, cut, and ready to go. Let everyone choose what they want, like carrot sticks, celery sticks, peppers, apples, and berries, to incorporate into their lunch. They’ll be more excited about eating the things they thoughtfully chose.
A Little Something Sweet
Unfortunately, we're accustomed to having a treat with meals. Especially kids. And packaged Lunchables include a cookie. Fortunately, there are some portion-controlled sweet solutions. Greg’s Crazy Good cookies from Dierberg’s bakery are mini versions of regular-sized cookies. Including one of these pre-portioned treats in your kiddos' DIY lunchables will make them happy without the worry of too much sugar. It’s about balance, not perfection - for your kids and for you.
For more information about family health and wellness, nutrition, and fitness, visit StrongByIntention.com and follow me @KTElizabethwellness