Everyday Healthy Lunches

Traditional lunches like bologna sandwiches and potato chips or canned ravioli and grilled cheese tend to be favorites of many kids. However, not all of these favorites are necessarily good for your little one. If you’re looking for healthier lunch ideas for your child, try these small changes in order to give him or her a healthy lunch they’ll love just as much.

In place of bologna sandwiches with mayonnaise, try turkey or chicken with lettuce, tomato and mustard. Although you’re trying to give your child healthier lunches, don’t feel like you have to completely do away with their favorites. It’s ok to splurge on bologna occasionally.

We all know that chips are chalked full of salt, fat and calories which makes it hard to eat healthy when it comes to them. There are healthier versions such as the baked potato chips that while, still not extremely healthy for your child, are better than their original counterparts. If you’re looking to get rid of chips as a lunch side you can also try pretzels, tortilla chips or raw veggies and dip in their place. Another option is pasta salad with lots of veggies and a bit of Italian style dressing. Pita or bagel chips are another option that’s healthier than traditional potato chips. Mix things up by providing different dips to go along with these healthy alternatives. Bean dips, salsa and hummus are all great options.

If you are preparing a warm lunch for your child at home, don’t just open a can of Spaghetti Os® or ravioli. Instead boil up some whole wheat pasta noodles and top with tomato sauce for a healthier option with a lot less salt. Want to fill them up a bit more, add a bit of cooked ground turkey to the pasta.

Instead of a grilled cheese sandwich that’s made with processed cheese and fried in butter, make your child cheese toast. Cut up your favorite cheese and place on one side of a few pieces of bread. Place it in the toaster oven or broiler for a yummy and healthier grilled cheese alternative. You can also add lean ham, turkey or chicken for even more flavor. Another healthy option is to use whole wheat bread, slices of cheddar cheese and cook the sandwich with cooking spray instead of butter.

Don’t forget to have a look at the drinks that accompany your child’s lunch either. Sodas and soft drinks are obviously not the healthiest options, but pay attention to how much juice your child drinks as well. A glass of their favorite fruit juice a day is fine, drinking it by the gallon is another story. Dilute juices with water and offer your child plenty of plain water with a little ice or lemon throughout the day. Herbal teas are a great choice for lunch time drinks as well.