By Bev Winkley • 01 Sep, 2020 •

Back to school 2020 is going to look very different this year. Whether virtual learning or back in the school building with safety precautions such as masks, social distancing and increased emphasis on hygiene, nutrition will play a vital part in learning now more than ever. Concentration during these circumstances is going to be challenging. It's more important this school season to ensure children receive the best foods for increased concentration, sharpness and assistance in building cognitive skills in addition to contributing to physical growth and development. Foods that support healthy brain development include, eggs, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, yogurt, fish and oatmeal. Freshly squeezed orange juice added to a breakfast of boiled eggs and whole wheat toast or oatmeal get the day off to a nutritious start. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, yogurt, nut butters and oatmeal into nutritious smoothies for after school snacks or during a mid-day break while virtual learning. Close the day with a nutritious dinner containing fish or chicken. As any parent knows, it can be difficult to get kids to eat the foods they need for healthy growth every day. That’s when a little creativity is required. Prepare foods in a fun, easy to eat way such as fruit kabobs with chunks of pineapple, grapes and strawberries. Freeze spears of pineapple for a frozen treat. Build bento boxes full of fruit chunks, cheeses, meats and nuts for snacks and lunch. Juice their favorite fruits with leafy greens such as kale or spinach. Create smoothie bowls arranging fruit and nuts in a fun design on top. Using a little imagination, children can get the power foods they need to improve their attention during this unique school year. Contact Juicernet for information about our fruit and vegetable juicing machines!