Nurse Notes -March is National Nutrition Month
March is National Nutrition Month, and it’s the perfect time to focus on healthy eating habits that support growing minds and active bodies! Balanced nutrition is essential for your child’s energy, focus, and overall well-being.
Here are some tips and ideas to help your family make healthy choices this month and beyond.
Build Balanced Plates | Encourage your child to fill their plate with a variety of colorful foods. Aim for:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Half the plate. Fresh, frozen, or canned varieties (in water or 100% juice) are all great options.
- Whole Grains: Look for whole-grain bread, pasta, and cereals.
- Protein: Include lean meats, eggs, beans, nuts, or seeds.
- Dairy or Alternatives: Opt for low-fat milk, yogurt, or fortified dairy alternatives.
Healthy Snacks for School | Packing a nutritious snack can help sustain your child’s energy throughout the day. Consider:
- Apple slices with peanut butter
- Baby carrots and hummus
- String cheese with whole-grain crackers
- Greek yogurt with fresh fruit
- Avoid highly processed snacks like chips and sugary treats, which can lead to an energy crash.
Stay Hydrated | Water is the best drink for hydration. Consider sending a reusable water bottle with your child to school each day. Limit sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks.
Make Mealtimes Meaningful | Eating together as a family can encourage healthy habits. Try:
- Cooking a new recipe together as a family activity.
- Asking your child about their day during meals to make the time more enjoyable
Resources and Support | If you’re looking for ideas or resources on healthy eating, the following websites are helpful:
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s all about balance and enjoying a variety of foods! If you have questions or need additional resources, feel free to contact the school health office.
Here’s to a happy and healthy March!