Nature’s Path Gluten-Free Back-to-school Blog

It’s almost time for the kids to return to school and with that the annual “lunchbox” pressure begins. If your child follows a gluten-free diet, this pressure can seem even tougher – to find kid-approved options that are gluten-free and taste good are healthy. We’re here to help with some proven – kid-tested, parent and Ashley Koff Approved - options.

First, note that when it comes to capturing the full health benefits from a gluten-free diet, it’s necessary to also choose organic and to aim for a good ratio of fiber to sugar (ideally at 1:2 or even better 1:1 ratio) content.

Second, beyond what we feed our kids, what we package their food in matters too. From what the cereal or bar is packed in to what containers you pack their food in, try to skip plastic and use eco-friendly materials for a healthier child, and healthier environment. Companies like New Wave Enviro make eco-friendly kid lunch containers so skip the plastic bags and containers, and Nature’s Path uses eco-friendly packaging.

1) Nature’s candy bowl: create a trail mix from a whole grain gluten-free cereal (Gorilla Munch), add some nuts and / or coconut pieces (coconut is not a tree nut so its ok if the school has a “no nut” policy), organic chocolate chips, and dried fruit (avoid dried fruit with sugar, try Just Berries or Just Mango).

2) PB & Fruit: Take a gluten-free waffle and spread a nut butter (almond, peanut, or Sunflower seed if skipping nuts) and then place sliced strawberries on top.

3) Quick sundae, everyday: grab a plain, organic yogurt and send them with their own toppings: organic berries and a gluten-free granola or whole grain cereal (you can also use your trail mix here – see #1)

4) Grab-n-go’s: create a quick, nutrient-balanced snack pack with an Envirokidz bar, a string cheese, and veggies sticks (Carrots, jicama, and snap peas)

And as the stress mounts, remember that kids’ bodies need “eating occasions” not meals during the day – think of the school day as a series of “pit stops” (it’s even great to discuss this analogy with your child – that their body is like a race car that needs “pit stops” about every three hours). This should take the pressure off trying to design the perfect meal – give them a variety of snacks instead.

Ashley Koff RD, founder of Ashley Koff Approved (www.ashleykoffapproved.com), seeks to provide simple, doable tips to create nutrition plans or optimal health.