Brain Food for School Kids

Heidi McIndoo is a frequent contributor and often quoted in numerous national magazines, including Woman's Day, Parents, Preventions, Shape, All You, Family Circle and Fitness as well as in newspapers across the country and on many radio and television interviews. Heidi's eighth book launches in August "The Complete Idiot's Guide to 200-300-400 Calorie Meals".
 

Brain foods are: high in protein and fiber. They don't make you smarter, but they: Proteins provide energy Fiber keeps you feeling full = better concentration and alertness

1. For most important meal of the day: demo creating a healthful, colorful breakfast parfait. Heidi will demo layering of yogurts, fruits, cereals etc to build the parfait. Can include anchor building one as well
2. Alternative to sometimes high-fat, high- sugar granola bars : on the go healthful soy based snacks for complete protein and fiber will keep kids feeling full and provide energy : Soyjoy bars

3. Most kids don’t drink enough milk – a good source of protein and calcium. Get kids to drink more milk by adding low-fat, low-sugar chocolate syrup – in moderation. Recent studies show chocolate milk as ideal drink for refueling after activity/ exercise – better than sugary sports drinks. Good for kids and parents: 2 Tablespsoons Hershey’s Lite Syrup in 8 oz 1% milk = 150 calories

4. Don’t have to deprive kids of crunchy, salty snacks. Try substituting hi fat potato chips and fried snacks with baked lower calorie: Pirate's Booty baked snack kids love and new small bags for lunch boxes or to keep in car

5. For special occasions and school parties, alternative to high-sugar/fate cupcakes: fruit cut in cupcake shapes and dipped in chocolate. The Cupcake Collection from Edible Arrangements