They trade - their lunches at school, that is. According to the National Cancer Institute, a mere 1 percent of U.S. children get the nutrients they need for health. In other words, kids need more bread and other grain foods, fruits and vegetables each day - and lunch is a good place to work them in. Bread as the base of a meal offers a great source of complex carbohydrates for energy and key nutrients for growth and development. What's more, the Food Guide Pyramid recommends we get six to 11 servings each day from the grain foods group, and bread is just one easy way to help children meet their grain food needs.
Sandwiches also provide the versatility needed to win the school lunch battle.
Involve children in the lunch-making process by allowing them to select their favorite sandwich bread at the grocery store, brainstorming fun serving ideas and preparing lunches the night before. This also lets parents teach the art of healthful eating to their little ones. Because bread is a staple in many worldwide food traditions, it's a perfect accompaniment to ethnically diverse toppings. Wait a month or so and then offer it again. Research shows children may need up to 20 tastes in as many meals before they accept a new food.