A good meal is not only essential to academic achievement, it is also part of a good education.  Good nutrition is critical to student acheivement.  Research has shown that hungry children cannot learn.  They are lethargic, irritable, and have shorter attention spans.  Nutrition habits and food preferences acquired now will be with your children throughout their life. 

Healthy Eating Made Easy (Source: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama)

Eating healthy doesn't have to cost a fortune.  Learning to make smart choices can help you improve your nutrition, manage your weight and save some cash at the same time. 
1.  Eat out less often. The perceived value of larger portions at restaurants and fast food outlets is outweighed by the money many of us spend on diets, weight loss books, gyms and fitness fads.
2.  Choose frozen. The vibrant color of frozen foods indicates antioxidants and vitamins – they contain just as much nutrition as fresh. Buy frozen produce in bulk, and store in your freezer.
3.  Buy local. Check out your local farmers’ market for fruits and vegetables that are in season and locally grown. They are often free of pesticides and usually cheaper than grocery store produce.
4.  Drink water instead of soda. Not only is water healthier for you, it’s free!
5.  Get your protein. Eat eggs, beans or tuna for a cheaper alternative to meat. All of these are full of protein and vitamins. When you eat meat, reduce portion sizes or add grains or frozen vegetables to meat dishes and stews to extend the servings and stretch your dollar.

From Wallet to Waistline (Source: Alabama Department of Publie Health)

Have you ever noticed that you only spend a few cents more to get a larger size of fries or soft drink?  Getting a larger portion of food for just a little extra money may seem like a good value, but you end up with more food, fat and calories than you need. 
The hidden costs of super-sizing:
1.  Super-size your french fries: An extra 64 cents buys 330 more calories.
2.  Super-size your regular soft drink:  An exra 60 cents buys 260 more calories.
3.  If you choose the combo hamburger meal rather than a burger: An extra $1.41 buys 660 more calories.
4.  If you choose the medium unbuttered movie popcorn rather than the small: 71 cents buys 500 more calories. 
Before you buy your next "value combo," be sure you are making the best choice for your health and wallet.  If you are with someone else, share the large size meal.  If you are eating alone, skip the special deal and order just what you need.  Research shows when people are served more food, they eat more food! 

Our mission is to provide affordable, student friendly, nutritious meals to students in the Saraland City School System.  Our meals meet all state and federal guidelines. 

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.  To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call 800-795-3272 or 202-720-6382.  USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.