Decreased Fruit and Vegetable Intake Related to Childhood Obesity

Eating fruits and vegetables provides us with a multitude of necessary nutrients. The American Academy of Pediatrics has published a study indicated that the high cost of fruits and vegetables may be related to the rise in childhood obesity. (http://ow.ly/tZge2) 

Purchasing fruits and vegetables that are in season can help to manage those costs while still being able to provide your family with these nutrient-rich items! Some great produce that is in season right now includes: oranges, spinach, kale, beets, broccoli, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes!

Middle School Staff Members

Check out our very own Bush and Perry Middle School Kitchen Staff Members showing off and being silly! Keep up the good work and great attitudes!

Healthy Behaviors Affect Children's Educational Success

Did you know that diet, exercise, and sleep play very large roles in the way your child performs in school, on tests, and in their general daily success? Research shows that children who maintain a regular, balanced diet, sleep 8 hours per night, and perform regular physical activity achieve higher test scores! Read more here: http://ow.ly/tZegv

CFB Cafeterias provide healthy breakfasts and lunches daily to help children succeed in the school environment and we encourage your children to join us!

Help Your Kids GO FOR GOLD!

Do your children aspire to be strong, healthy Olympians one day? Help your children go for the gold by feeding them tasty, healthy meals and snacks fit for an Olympic athlete! Our Pinterest page offers many great suggestions for doing just that! Check them out here: http://ow.ly/tP35i

Moms Make Healthy Meals

Coming up with fun, healthy meals to serve can be a daily struggle! Check out some great tips from these Registered Dietitians and moms:

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20140219/LIVING/140219524/Healthy-quick-to-the-table-meals-kids-will-love-

Fruit of the Month: Grapefruit (February 7)

Grapefruit

Grapefruit is a tart and tangy treat with an underlying sweetness. This fruit can be purchased with or without seeds or in the white or pink variety. It provides an excellent source of vitamin C and it is also high in other antioxidants that help us stave of different types of disease and strengthen our immune system. It provides a great sources of vitamin A, potassium, folate and fiber to make this fruit a well-rounded package. Grab a grapefruit on February 7th!

Incorporate this great grapefruit in your recipes:  http://allrecipes.com/recipes/fruits-and-vegetables/fruits/citrus/grapefruits/

Food Explorer of the Month: Jicama (February 10)

Jicama

Jicama, or Mexican Turnip, is the name of a native Mexican vine, although the name most commonly refers to the plant's edible tuberous root.   The root's exterior is yellow and papery, while its inside is creamy white with a crisp texture that resembles raw potato or pear. The flavor is sweet and starchy, reminiscent of some apples or raw green beans, and it is usually eaten raw, sometimes with salt, lemon, or lime juice and chili powder. Jicama provides tons of dietary fiber, vitamin C and B-complex vitamins. Research has shown that this tasty vegetable promotes heart health and helps protect against the common cold and other infections. Explore jicama on February 10^th!

Enjoy jam-packed jicama recipes here: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Jicama-Carrot-and-Green-Apple-Slaw/Detail.aspx?evt19=1