Packing a lunch? Keep it healthy, dietician says

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded the number of obese children has tripled in 30 years.

Statistics like that led to President Barack Obama signing into law the Healthy Hunger Free Kids Act. The law changes what schools offer in cafeterias. More fruits, vegetables and whole grains are expected on menus across the country, and foods with less fat and sodium should also be offered.

On this first day of school for the last vacationing children in the borderland, health experts are urging parents to start the year on the right foot when it comes to food.

An El Paso registered dietician said parents who opt to pack a lunch for their child but don’t have a lot of time should go for what she calls the “original” fast food.

“Fruit. It’s easy to grab, it’s portable and it’s usually easy to store,” said Angela Newton. “Bottled water or 100 percent juice. And fresh vegetables in sticks are usually very interesting, as well.”

Newton said the age-old tradition of trading or worse yet, dumping lunches can be deterred if children are interested and involved in what goes into their lunch pail. Sandwiches can even be freshened up.

“It’s always good to change up the breads and the shapes that are used,” said Newton. “Use mini-bagels sometimes. Or even use cookie cutters to cut into whole wheat bread. Different types of shapes and things that would keep them interested.”

Newton advised that parents read the ingredients on any packaged foods they buy for their children. She said the top ingredients should be items that are easily identifiable, and sugar or high fructose corn syrup should not be high up on the list.

“I would encourage parents to keep their child excited about what they’re making at home,” said Newton. “Keep kids involved. Make sure parents are interested in their own health as well as that of their child.”