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Healthy Eating Tips for School Start in North Rhine-Westphalia

As the new school year approaches, parents and children in North Rhine-Westphalia are being encouraged to focus on healthy nutrition. The Christliches Jugenddorfwerk Deutschlands NRW Nord (CJD NRW Nord) is the organization responsible for providing tips on healthy eating and coordinating offers in school canteens and kitchens.

It is beneficial for children to develop a habit of eating a balanced diet from an early age. A nutritious diet can contribute to overall health and academic performance, especially during long school days. The type of nutrition children consume affects their physical fitness, concentration, and mental performance.

To promote healthy eating habits, the Consumer Center NRW recommends using divided compartment containers to separate different food items in a lunchbox. This makes it easier for children to choose from a variety of healthy options. The organization also suggests packing the lunchbox with items like bell pepper, banana, whole grain bread, and sparkling water.

Parents should give their children enough water to take to school, as regular drinking promotes concentration and energy. Later snacks in school breaks provide the necessary energy boost to keep children mentally and physically fit throughout the day. Good options for vegetables and fruits include cucumber, tomato, carrot, strawberries, plums, and apples, best in bite-sized pieces.

Water dispensers in schools can support a healthy, low-calorie drinking culture and improve the overall well-being of students. The Consumer Center NRW also recommends unsweetened beverages such as unsweetened tea or mint-infused tap water.

For those looking for variety, the organization suggests discussing with children what goes into their lunchbox. A good option could be a sandwich or roll made from whole grain, topped with fresh cheese and salad, along with vegetable or fruit pieces. Sweets should be limited or only included occasionally in a child's lunchbox.

The Consumer Center North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) has provided a document titled "20250819_Tip_Brotdo~ for School Start.pdf" with tips for balanced nutrition as the new school year begins. Ideal for storage and transport are breakfast boxes with compartments to prevent food items from mixing and becoming unappetizing.

Parents who are concerned about the current offerings of the school cafeteria or snack bar can propose a meeting or working group to initiate changes. Many children may prefer less healthy options such as doner, donuts, and sugary soft drinks, but the Consumer Center NRW provides tips on how to make these options more appealing.

Breakfast at home, even a small snack, serves as a springboard for the day. A lunch with daily fresh vegetables or salad, potatoes, rice or pasta - and at most once a week a serving of meat - is recommended for school lunches, following the recommendations of the German Nutrition Society (DGE).

In conclusion, by following these tips, parents and children can make positive changes towards a healthier lifestyle and set the foundation for good eating habits that will last a lifetime.