As children start heading back to school, many parents start thinking about buying back to school supplies, clothes and other necessities. Many are also wondering how they 
can make healthy, balanced lunches for their children to take to school. In this interview with Charlotte Parent Magazine, Dr. Kantor talked about the most important things to put in your children’s lunch box, and what to leave out.
The biggest factor that leads to childhood obesity isn’t the chips and fries, the biggest factor is actually what they drink. Many kids, especially the younger ones, will have 4-5 juice boxes a day, which have around 200 empty calories. If they are sugar free, they contain artificial sweeteners, which are still not healthy and can cause other problems. Instead, have children crush their favorite fruits into a pitcher of water to make flavor infused water. Fill their thermos with this flavored water and send it in their lunchbox. In regards to their food, you need to have balance and get the children involved in making their lunch. Then they will take ownership of it and be less likely to trade for junk foods. They should always have fruits and veggies, a healthy protein and a healthy fat. This twist on the typical PB&J would be a great example: 2 slices gluten free bread, 1-2 tbsp all natural nut butter, all natural fruit spread, an apple, and a serving of carrots with hummus for dipping.
Listen to this interview for other great lunch ideas, info on The Green Box League of Nutritious Justice and more tips for raising healthy kids.
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This is a preview to an article that will be featured in Charlotte Parent Magazine. Check back for the full article.
Dr. Kantor’s greatly anticipated new children’s book, The Green Box League of Nutritious Justice, is now available. Be sure to order this highly reviewed book, filled with healthy living tips for the whole family. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.
