M ake a low-fat dip from yogurt mixed with seasonings to make the carrots and other veggies more interesting. F or a healthy, balanced lunch, include a piece of fruit or veggies, bread, crackers, pretzels or other grain product, and a protein source such as meat, tuna, eggs or cheese. A carton of milk from the school cafeteria will round out the meal. A void the pre-packaged lunches in a box from the grocery store. They have more fat, sodium, sugar and preservatives than a child should have in one day, much less one meal.
C heck the labels on low-fat cookies and other goodies.
Often, the calorie savings is minimal due to high amounts of sugar, used to offset the lack of fat. L ow-fat fruit yogurt often has more sugar than a can of soda and minimal fruit. Make a healthier version in your blender or food processor with non-fat plain yogurt, bananas for sweetening, and your favorite fruit. F or a dessert, send raisins and other dried fruit such as apricots, peaches, apples and prunes. They taste sweet and come with lots of vitamins and minerals.