The war for fashion continues as another school year begins with new clothes and shiny electronics. healthy school lunchesThe wages are.

“With childhood obesity on the rise and kids eating worse today than they did 20 years ago, it is so important for parents to take their children’s diets seriously,”Elizabeth Somer is a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and author. “Eat Your Way to Happiness.”

However, busy parents know that it can be difficult to prepare a nutritious lunch at 6 a.m. especially if your child is likely to choose a slice of cafeteria Pizza.

The war isn’t over, but don’t be discouraged. It is possible for children to eat healthy lunches if they know how to handle vegetables and fruits. Somer believes watermelon should be a staple in the kitchen.

“Watermelon contains lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant, and it is the pigment that gives watermelon its red color,”Somer. “Watermelon is free of cholesterol, fat and sodium. You can’t get much better than that.”

This juicy fruit is often called a multi-vitamin. It contains vitamins A, B6 (6%) and C (8%) as well as potassium (8%) and fiber (4%) It is also great for staying hydrated. Watermelon is delicious and easy to eat.

All those people who are going to be raving about how much watermelon’s natural sugar content, just wait a minute. Somer claims that this myth is mostly untrue and that watermelon has very few calories, despite having a high glycemic score.

“Watermelon just fills you up without filling you out,” Somer says. “The nice thing about watermelon is that it’s chin-dribbling juicy and so versatile. You can eat it straight from the melon, blend it into a beverage, make popsicles out of it, make sweet salsas, grill it, put it in sandwiches, etc.”

Watermelon is often misunderstood as a summer treat. However, it is available all year. Watermelon is also very portable when chopped up and placed in baggies.

This quick and easy watermelon recipe is perfect for school lunches

Watermelon Kebabs

1 serving 1 inch cubes of seedless watermelon

1 serving smoked Turkey Breast

1 cup low-fat, fat-free cheddar cheese

1 serving coffee stirrers, or straws

Cut watermelon and turkey into cubes and then skewer them on straws or stirrers.

Somer also suggests watermelon muffins and smoothies. More watermelon recipes are available here www.watermelon.org.