Author: Registered Dietitian Meghan Sedivy, RD, LDN
Lunch with a Punch
Try these easy lunch ideas to keep you and your kids happy, healthy, and energized!
Planning meals can be daunting, but it doesn’t need to be—especially with these lunch packing tips from the Fresh Thyme Farmers Market Registered Dietitians.
Protein is a key component and should be one-fourth of your child’s plate. Easy protein sources include nut and seed butters, beans, cheeses, meats, and yogurts. Don’t forget carbohydrates like popcorn, whole wheat crackers, pasta, and rice cakes. Keep the carbs to one-fourth of the plate.
TIPS FOR KIDDOS AGES 1-5
Eating food from all five food groups is essential for growth and development. Kids ages 1 to 5 have smaller stomachs and need small, frequent meals four to six times a day. A rule of thumb is 1 tablespoon of each food group per year of age. Focus on finger foods with familiar textures and flavors. Include at least three different-color fruits or veggies on each plate. Kids may have fun making faces out of their foods or helping stir ingredients.Protein is a key component and should be one-fourth of your child’s plate. Easy protein sources include nut and seed butters, beans, cheeses, meats, and yogurts. Don’t forget carbohydrates like popcorn, whole wheat crackers, pasta, and rice cakes. Keep the carbs to one-fourth of the plate.