Healthy Back to School Routines and a Recipe for Sugar-Free Cranberry Bread

Stay-at-home orders and school closures have resulted in irregular eating habits, sleep schedules and physical activities for students across the country. A new school year is an ideal time to get the kids back into a healthy routine. With many schools still remaining online this fall, it’s important that students incorporate healthy habits and consistency into their daily lives.

Here are some simple ways to make sure students are mentally and physically prepared for the school day.

Start the Day with Breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It’s necessary to make time in the morning for a nutritious bite to provide energy and focus for the school day. Choosing foods rich in whole grains, fiber and protein, while low in added sugar, may boost kids’ attention span, concentration and memory.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can affect kids physically. It’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep the mind sharp and energy levels high. Make sure your child has water in reach during the school day. If your kid isn’t a fan of plain water, add a few drops of flavored stevia for a sweeter, more flavorful refreshment.

Eat More Fiber

Fiber is an important part of a kid’s diet. It helps keep kids full and keeps things moving in the digestive tract. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and other high-fiber foods are good sources of nutrients and vitamins that may help reduce the risk of disease and obesity.

Get Enough Sleep

Growing kids need sleep. A good night’s rest is associated with fewer learning problems and attention issues. Nine to 11 hours of sleep a night is a good number to shoot for.

This school year bake your kids a loaf of our delicious and healthy sugar-free cranberry bread; perfect for an afterschool snack or quick breakfast.

Sugar-Free Cranberry Pumpkin Bread

INGREDIENTS

1 15oz can pumpkin puree (not pie filling)

1 cup vegetable oil

4 large eggs

3 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp Stevita Naturals Spoonable Stevia

3 cups unsweetened applesauce

2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground nutmeg

1/8 tsp ground cloves

1 cup chopped cranberries, fresh or frozen

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray two 10 inch loaf pans with nonstick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, oil, and eggs. Beat at medium speed until combined.
3. In medium bowl, combine flour, stevia, applesauce, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Gradually add to pumpkin ingredients, beating until smooth. Stir in cranberries and walnuts.
4. Divide batter into the two prepared loaf pans. Bake in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until wooden pick inserted through center of bread comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to allow breads to cool completely before serving.

https://www.theresasmixednuts.com/2019/11/sugar-free-cranberry-pumkin-bread.html