The model shown here for a complex carbohydrate molecule is, well, pretty complex.“Complex”

carbs, found in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and rice, nuts, seeds, and beans,Complex carbs aid digestion because they’re . They

deliver and help you They’re loaded withBut “simple” carbs (like the sugar in soda, candy, and many

processed foods) are mostly refined in factories. Your body absorbs these sugars veryquickly and the energy you get from simple carbs doesn’t last very long,

So for good health,the choice is

simple:

But deciding which carbs are best for your health is actually pretty simple.

come from nature. high in fiberlong-lasting, steady energy feel full longer.

vitamins and mineral

leaving youcraving more and more.

eat morecomplex carbs.

s.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER.LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER.

This newsletter is provided as a wellness resource by our school system’s School Meals Program

WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE!WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE!TM

THE SIMPLE TRUTH.

the big number

Nutritionists say we should get about50% of our calories from carbs, most

of which should be complex carbs

5500

Eating is a big part ofholiday get-togethers,so savor that goodfood! Sure, try not tooverdo it , and get alittle exercise if youcan, but cherish yourprecious time withfamily and friends!

Resist the urge to let kids munch on a lot of holidaysweets while doing homework! The best snack forstudying is a bowl of grapes or otherfresh fruit. Save thecookies or othertreats for afterdinner, whenthey will be partof a complete,healthy meal.

If possible, give kids gifts that encourage them to getsweaty and out of breath! A football, tennis racket,

Frisbee, snowboard,horseshoe set, ball

rebounder, baseballand glove – anythingthat requires

movement andexercise! Video

games thatincludevigorousphysicalactivity aregood, too, butdon’t neglectthe good, old-fashionedoutdoor stuff!

Walnuts are a traditional holiday snack –and a good choice, too. Just /

cup of these crunchy nutsprovides nearly a day’sworth of omega-3essential fatty acids, aspecial type of

protective fat that thebody can’t make on its own.

14

HELPING YOUR WHOLE FAMILY FEEL WELL AND DO WELL! “THE SIMPLE TRUTH”

EAT BETTERTry lots of different fruits, veggies, nuts, and whole grains for a

healthy diet. You’re bound to find a few you really like!

This newsletter is provided as a wellness resource by our school system’s School Meals Program

PLAY HARDER

WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE!WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE!TM

LEARN EASIER The meals we serve aren’t just for kids – they’re for parents, too.

Because every one of our meals comes with a heaping helping of peace of

mind. Every day, you can rest assured that we will provide your children

with a full, nutritious meal they’ll enjoy, at a price that can’t be beat. And

that means convenient, economical, healthy School Meals are good for

your kids for you. We invite all students to join us often!and

Added bonus forparents with every

meal we serve.

LIVE HEALTHIER

walnutswalnuts