Pumpkin Season |
October is here, which means you’re ready for all things pumpkin! This winter squash isn’t only a fun Halloween craft, but a nutritious superfood that should be enjoyed during the festive season. We spend a good amount of money and time creating the best jack-o-lanterns, but the “guts” that we throw away afterwards are truly the best part. Packed full of fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals like potassium and magnesium – the seeds and pulp can support the immune system, keep skin and eyes healthy, aid in weight management, and improve digestion (plus more!). This year, make sure to save the pumpkin “brains” and make a delicious and healthy treat or save your seeds to grow your own next year! |
| Save Your Seed To Grow |
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What are Ultra-Processed Foods?
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Packaged snacks, frozen meals, and sugary cereals can sneak into kids’ diets more often than we realize. These ultra-processed foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium—while being low in nutrients. Although eating these occasionally and intermittently as a part of a varied and healthy diet is not a major concern, consistent intake can lead to health issues down the road. If that surprises or overwhelms you, you are not alone. Find more information and realistic recommendations by RDs at Johns Hopkins. |
| More Information & Realistic Recommendations |
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Fueling for Fall Sports |
As kids join soccer teams or after-school activities this fall season, nutrition plays a big role in their energy and recovery. Balanced meals with complex carbs for fuel, lean proteins for muscle repair, and fruits or veggies for vitamins are key. Don’t forget hydration—even in cooler weather, kids can get dehydrated. A well-fueled body means better performance and more fun on the field. Find RD-approved ideas for meals and snacks before, during, and after practice/events! |
| Meals And Snacks |
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Going Nuts for Autumn |
With rates of nut allergies soaring over the past two decades, it is understandable that many parents unintentionally exclude nuts from many kids’ diets or are nervous to offer them. Nuts, in moderation and variety, offer balanced nutrition with high protein and healthy fats, help prevent cardiovascular risk factors and prediabetes, and promote healthy weight. October 22nd is National Nut Day, which is a great opportunity to try new options with your kids. You may consider making a fun autumn-themed trail mix for school, sports, or apple picking. Just make sure your child is able to appropriately chew and swallow them to avoid choking!
Cashews or Walnuts Slivered Almonds or Pumpkin Seeds Dried Fruit (apricots, cranberries, or apples) Pretzels or Cheerio’s (make it fancy with Apple Cinnamon or Pumpkin Spice flavor) M&Ms or Candy Corn |
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About HotLunch.com |
HotLunch.com is the only web-based system of its kind
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HotLunch.com is used by schools across North America! With HotLunch.com you can easily manage school-lunch administration, publish lunch menus online, receive payments, and reduce time spent on managing parent transactions, including fundraising, after-school care, volunteering, and much more.
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See For Yourself!
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HotLunch.com Now Available in Spanish & French |
Our school lunch software is now available in Spanish and French, making it easier for schools around the world to utilize our school lunch system. This update allows more families to reap the benefits of HotLunch.com. |
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Hotlunch.com partners to educate unprivileged girls
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We are proud to partner with Ainiti.org, an organization that empowers and educates underprivileged girls through technology. Thanks to you, profits from Hotlunch.com will be used to support girls in need. |
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Abbie Hebron, MS, RD, CSP, LD, CNSC |
Abbie Hebron is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in pediatric nutrition (Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition). She graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Missouri State University, and then attended the University of Rhode Island where she earned her master's degree. She is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and was the recipient of South Carolina's Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year Award in 2022. In her free time, Abbie enjoys baking, traveling, hiking, and playing tennis with family and friends. |
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ABOUT US |
Simple, Fast, Accurate solution for Schools, Food Service Providers & Offices
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