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What's on the Menu? Healthy Choices for Your Child's Hot Lunch

by Lindsay Hutton

According to the American Heart Association, the recommended daily calories for school-age girls is between 1200-1800 calories, and for boys between 1400-2200 calories, with total fat intake between 25-35% of their total caloric consumption. But let's face it - the school year is hectic. Although you'd like to send your child off to school every day with a wholesome and nutritious brown-bag lunch, sometimes you just don't have the time to pack one. This guide will help your little one make smarter meal choices at school if hot lunch is on the menu.

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Unhealthy Choice: Chicken Patty

A chicken patty on a bun serves up a lot of calories, but not a lot of nutrition. With over 400 calories and around 20 grams of fat, this hot lunch choice is loaded with salt, cholesterol, and other unhealthy additives you wouldn't want your child eating.

Next: Try Instead: Chicken Nuggets

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