Adopting healthy eating habits is one of the most important ways young people can reduce their risk of breast cancer—and there’s no better place to start than a lunchbox! Now that school is in full swing, here are some simple and easy nutrition switches you can make right now to help your children eat a breast-healthy lunch every day.
Each switch is aimed at increasing protein, fiber, healthy fats, and veggies, while reducing added sugar and saturated fats.
Making a sandwich? Choose whole wheat bread instead of white, slather on mustard in place of mayo, or add creaminess with sliced avocado rather than cheese. Choose hummus, a light tuna salad, or turkey instead of ham or bologna.
For dessert, opt for Greek yogurt over pudding or add fresh berries with a small square of chocolate instead of a cookie or brownie. If your child likes it, dark chocolate is higher in antioxidants than milk chocolate.
Need to pack a snack? Choose lightly salted nuts or popcorn instead of chips. Dip raw veggies (think bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers) in hummus instead of ranch dressing, or go for apple slices in nut butter.
Skip soda—even diet—in favor of sparkling water or plain water.
For more easy ways to eat healthy this fall, see our comprehensive nutrition switch list!