Back-to-School Nutrition Solutions

Back-to-school season is here – and for some families, there’s no better time than right now to start establishing positive nutrition behaviors with our children.

Today, on Fox 4’s Morning Show, I’m offering solutions to four areas of concern for young and old alike:

  • Eliminating soda from your family’s diet. Rather than flat water, keep the kids interested and feeling great by swapping soda for a flavored sparkling water such as Sparkling Fruit2O. They come in a variety of great flavors and can be portioned or re-sealed as needed.
  • Eliminating chips as a snack. Introduce cheese to your snacking menu as it provides savory flavor while adding a good source of protein and calcium. Pair it with whole grain crackers for added health benefits.
  • Keeping your family hydrated. Without a doubt, water is the best way to rehydrate. Try beverage options that provide flavor as well as the health benefits of water. Parents can also sneak in hydration with fruits that contain a high percentage of water such as watermelon and grapes.
  • Back-to-School Nutrition SolutionsFeeding your family a healthier breakfast while on the go. Breakfast is brain food, but it can be a challenge to feed the kids healthfully and get out the door in time for school. Try this recipe for an on-the-go yogurt and granola parfait using plain yogurt with almond butter, granola and mixed berries:

Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup mixed berries
  • 1/2 banana
  • 1 (6 ounce) container of yogurt
  • 1/3 cup granola
  • 3/4 cup almond butter

Directions:

  • Layer mixed berries and banana, yogurt, and almond butter on top of one another in select container, then top with granola. Enjoy!

Editor’s note: Kansas City Moms Blog was compensated for products and visuals used in today’s television appearance; however, all opinions shared are our own!

Emily
Emily is the happy wife of a fantastic dentist and the mother of three amazing boys ages 11, 8, and 5. Their family moved to Kansas City in 2006 and they have fallen in love with this jewel of the Midwest. Emily has her degree in Graphic Design from the University of Missouri – St. Louis and is passionate about family, art, children’s literature, party planning, gardening, food (namely dark chocolate), and service in her community. She is part of the largest women’s organization in the world, Relief Society, and is very active in her church. Their family has just begun the journey to and through adoption, and she is excited to share this experience with our readers. Her situation is unique in that their family is pursuing an independent adoption, without the use of an agency. They are hoping to add a little girl to their forever family. You can find their adoption profile at 3D Adopting.