Fueling Young Minds: Five Simple and Nutritious Lunchbox Ideas for School

By Abu Dhabi 360

As the school year kicks off, it’s vital to ensure children have the best possible start. This doesn’t just mean sharpened pencils and new uniforms, but also nutritious meals to help fuel their brains and bodies throughout the academic day.

The relationship between nutrition and cognitive development in children is undeniable. Studies show that proper nutrition not only enhances focus and memory but also facilitates better problem-solving skills. Conversely, a lack of balanced nutrition can lead to concentration difficulties and even behavioural issues, underlining the importance of a well-rounded diet in these formative years.

“Offering a well-balanced meal to our children is essential for their energy levels and concentration during school hours,” highlights Dr. Mona Mobarak, a certified nutritionist working closely with Abu Dhabi 360.”A nourishing lunch can optimise a child’s focus, memory, and overall learning capability, helping them grasp new concepts with ease.”

In collaboration with Dr. Mona Mobarak, Abu Dhabi 360 has prepared a series of simple, delicious, and nutritious lunchbox recipes to help give families the right fuel for a successful school year:

• Turkey & Avocado Wrap: The combination of turkey and avocado provides a rich source of proteins and healthy fats, whilst the whole grain tortilla offers fibre, promoting a steady release of energy. Add a dash of honey mustard for sweet tang and reap the rewards of antioxidants, beneficial for overall health.

• Quinoa Salad: Quinoa, a grain rich in protein, pairs brilliantly with the hydration and vitamins from cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. Elevate the salad with a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra calcium, and lightly drizzle with olive oil and lemon zest which add flavour and additional nutrients.

• Hummus Veggie Sandwich: Hummus, made from chickpeas is packed with protein and fibre, essential for brain function, and veggies act as a great source of added hydration and vitamins. Finish with a whole grain bread for long-lasting energy throughout the day,

• Chicken Pesto Pasta: Chicken offers lean protein essential for tissue repair, while whole grain pasta ensures sustained energy release, perfect for a long-school day, The pesto sauce adds a delightful flavour and also contains basil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

• Fruit & Yogurt Parfait: Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and probiotics, which are praised for gut health. Combined with granola and berries, this simple and delicious parfait dish becomes a symphony of antioxidants, dietary fibre, and essential nutrients that can boost cognitive function.

Incorporating brain-boosting foods into children’s diet is just as important as fostering healthy eating habits from a young age. The benefits extend beyond physical health, directly contributing to a child’s academic performance. Whether families are looking for breakfast ideas or delicious dinner spreads, the Abu Dhabi 360 app is a one-stop source for wholesome recipes suitable for any occasion.