With Back-To-School upon us you might be wondering how you can keep the nutrition going packed up in your kiddos lunch pail. I’m here today to offer up a few ways to make them nutrient packed and a step beyond the norm.

Recently, I came across the new Cauliflower Thins and Jicama Wraps from Trader Joe’s. They are delicious and a super avenue for getting more vegetables in your child’s diet. They are also an excellent option for kids with Celiac Disease or have a nut allergy.

For the Cauliflower Thins you can layer thin slices of cucumber, a slice of organic deli turkey (omit if vegan), thin slices of avocado or spread of guacamole, and a slice of tomato.

If you want a healthier improv of the pizza Lunchables, you can also pack them along with a side of tomato sauce, shredded cheese, and olives or another favorite toppings to build his/her own pizza.

On to the Jicama wraps. These are nice and crunchy and do no have an overpowering flavor, sure to pass even a picky eaters taste test. Here you can take canned tuna/chicken/salmon, finely dice up celery, pickles, & onion (if they’ll eat it), and Veganaise mayo.

​Combine well. Fill the Jicama Wrap like a taco or burrito and there you have it! You can also toss in a container of berries to boost their brain power.

All of these options include the protein they need for growth and strength, the right kind of fats for their brain & body, and quality carbohydrates packed with nutrition to keep their immune systems at peak and full of energy. Stayed tuned for more healthy kid-friendly suggestions.

I’m sure you’ve heard of the terms “prebiotics” and “probiotics.” But do you really know what they are, and the role they play in your body? 
​
Probiotics are known as “good” bacteria that are similar to the naturally occurring bacteria found in your GI tract. We can think of them as a supplement since they work withour resident bacteria to keep our digestive system healthy and functioning properly. Probiotics are living organisms. And, as we all know, living organisms need food to survive. For that reason, prebiotics exist and serve as the food source for probiotics. 

Here’s how... 

Prebiotics are a type of non-digestible food (fiber) that probiotics use as energy, or fuel. 

Since our bodies cannot digest fiber, it remains in the GI tract for most of the digestive cycle, until it reaches the large intestine, where most of our gut bacteria is rooted. Then, bacteria ferments and breaks down the prebiotics to help in the digestion of food, the production of certain vitamins, and in keeping the immune system healthy. 

So, why are probiotics and prebiotics significant? 
Our gut plays an important role in our health, especially the health of our immune system. It is filled with trillions of different bacteria, but not all of them are beneficial. The goal of consuming probiotics and prebiotics is to increase the ratio of “good” bacteria to “bad” bacteria. 

Everyone’s gut microbiota is unique, and it can be impacted by the foods we consume. Most of the time, our microbiota can adapt to change. However, there are some instances where a rift in the balance can arise. Research states that such imbalance may be linked to inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, allergies, and diabetes ( 1) . Moreover, ongoing research have attributed prebiotic and probiotic consumption with reducing antibiotic associated diarrhea, improving mild to moderate IBS and other digestive symptoms, and maintaining overall digestive and immune system health( 2) . 
​
Where can I find prebiotics and probiotics? ​

Prebiotics are naturally found in fruits and vegetables such as apples, bananas, artichokes, garlic, onion, leeks, and tomatoes; in grains such as bran; and in nuts such as almonds. Hence, including a variety of fruits and vegetables in the diet is one way to make sure you are getting natural sources of prebiotics in your diet. 

Probiotics supplements are available, but you can also find them naturally in fermented foods such as sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir, tempeh, miso, kimchi, pickles, and in some cheeses such as gouda, mozzarella, and cheddar. 

Maintaining a healthy environment for gut bacteria to thrive is key to optimal health. Supplements are readily available, but make sure to include a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet so you can reap the benefits of these little living organisms! 
​
References 
1.European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility. (2017). Gut Microbiota for Health. Retrieved from http://www.gutmicrobiotaforhealth.com/en/about-gut-microbiota-info/
2.Sanders, M. (2016). Probiotics. International Scientific Association of Prebiotics and Probiotics. Retrieved from https://isappscience.org/probiotics/ ​