Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about getting ready to go back to school. Previously, we discussed the kinds of foods the brain needs to function at its best so students can be alert and concentrate in class. That means that packing the right kind of lunch is important.
Unfortunately, many popular school lunch treats — such as chips and candy bars — not only don’t help brainpower, they may promote obesity. Lona Sandon, a registered dietitian at UT Southwestern Medical Center, has some suggestions for better school lunches. A sandwich made with whole-grain bread and low-fat meats and cheeses or peanut butter makes a good foundation for lunch. Carrot sticks and apple slices on the side are a better alternative to chips. Fruit cups, pudding cups made with skim milk or yogurt tubes make good desserts. Juice, bottled water, skim milk or yogurt smoothies are a better idea than sodas.
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August 2007
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