Parent or child, the transition from summertime to school can be a meal-time challenge. Between changes in weather, school, and schedule, worrying about changing your family’s diet can be the last thing on your mind. Why not ride the wave of transition at the grocery store, too? Trade out your summer go-tos, like ice cream and packaged snacks, for healthier options. Here are some items and tips you may want to consider adding on to your grocery list and into your routine for back-to-school.

Fruits and Veggies > Packaged Snacks

While packaged snacks are ideal for easy transport, they are not always  the best for fueling your brain or maintaining your energy levels. Packaged snacks can contain high amounts of sodium, sugar, and additives that will leave you feeling weighed down and tired, and are usually pretty absent in real nutritional value. Instead, grab some fruit and veggies for a snack that fills you up and contributes positively to your wellbeing. Cut up carrots, cucumbers, celery, snap peas, and tomatoes, with a side of almond butter, hummus, or salsa and you’re good to go.

Make Breakfast a Priority

You’ve heard it before and you’re going to hear it again. Breakfast is super important for your body and mind, especially when it comes to kids’ performance at school. Studies show that kids who eat a healthy breakfast are better able to focus during their lunch time classes, and test better overall. Breakfast doesn’t have to be an elaborate egg scramble to do the job. If you’re in a rush something as simple as a protein bar, smoothie, or fruit will do the trick! Foods like these are easy and work for an on-the-go schedule and will jump start your day. Try our protein shakes, vegan protein shakes, kids protein shake or our protein bars.

Meal Prep

Meal prep is one of those things that doesn’t really seem worth it until you’ve gotten into a grove. There’s nothing better than coming home after a long day to a full and healthy meal. The other great thing about meal prep is that it can totally be your own. Do as little or as much as you want, but it will help you stay on track and eat healthier during the week, even when it is crunch time. If you’re new to the meal prep scene, start simply. Pre chop your veggies so they’re ready for a salad. Cook up a full pot of farro so you can eat it throughout the week. Pre-roast some seasonal veggies like zucchini, summer squash, red peppers and eggplant. Every little bit saves time, money, and your waistline.

Replacing Ice Cream and Frozen Sweets

Summer might be over but that doesn’t mean the temperatures are winding down yet. Instead of cooling off with ice cream or popsicles, substitute some healthier options. Nice cream is a delicious and healthy option! Simply put frozen bananas and a splash of nut-based liquid (we like Orgain Almond Milk) into your blender. Incorporate cacao nibs, almond butter or frozen fruits to mix up the flavor. Nice cream will satisfy your sweet tooth without the added sugar. If you’re more of a milkshake person, smoothies are an easy and healthy trade and the recipes are endless… Check out some of our favorites here or create your own and incorporate our protein powder for an added nutritional bonus.