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As students head back to school, nutrition plays a crucial role in helping them concentrate and perform well in the classroom, according to Katherine Shary, a registered dietitian with Children's Healthcare of Atlanta's Strong-4-Life program.

"We want our kids to be able to focus, and to be able to focus, we want to make sure that their bellies have something in them," Shary said.

Key Nutrition Components

Healthy school meals should include four essential elements: protein, healthy fats, fiber, and carbohydrates. These components work together to provide sustained energy and support cognitive function throughout the school day.

Shary recommends parents move away from sugary beverages and stick with water for proper hydration.

Six Easy Meal Ideas

For parents looking to break the cycle of boring school breakfasts and lunches, nutrition experts have developed six practical meal ideas that can be prepared ahead of time. These options range from enhanced breakfast items to creative lunch alternatives that provide better nutrition than typical packaged options.

Watch the full Health Minute segment for detai

Healthy School Meals Can Boost Student Focus