HealthBuzz: Back to School Just Got Healthier

Health news from around the web for September 1, 2011.

Our host Jamie Yuenger may not be going back to school herself, but she shares some valuable information that can help parents make the most of this important time of year, with stories from Care2.com, Yahoo! Shine, our team, and a recipe from Green Lite Bites.

Bring the Farm to the School

We know the school fundraiser routine - wrapping paper, popcorn, chocolates. But who really needs, or wants, all that stuff? Care2 shares an ingenious idea for having students sell CSA shares or subscriptions. Community Supported Agriculture shares mean your local farmers are being supported, the school gets money they need, and families get fresh produce to make healthy meals at home. Who doesn't win in this situation?

Source: Care2.com

Shrink Your Waist and Waste by Starting a Walking School Bus in Your Neighborhood

Not many kids can say they walked uphill either direction to school these days, much less walked at all. Do something for the environment, yourself, and the kids by forming a walking school bus. With a little involvement from a couple of other parents, everyone will get some much needed activity first thing in the morning. The kids will be energized for their first class and you'll have already knocked out part of your workout for the day!

Source: Yahoo! Shine

SchoolMenu Serving School Lunch Support That Every District and Parent Needs

It's 12:00... do you know what your child is having for lunch today? SchoolMenu.com is an organization that partners with public school districts across the country to ensure that question is never left unanswered. At no cost to the district, they save the schools money and provide a service that keeps parents and students better informed.

Source: DietsInReview.com

Physical Fitness Makes for Better Students

A recent study that included 2.4 million Texas public school students revealed something that shouldn't come as too much of a shock - active students are better students. For students who participated in regular physical activity, their grades were better, they were more focused, and attendance was higher. As more PE programs are cut more students are sure to suffer.

Source: DietsInReview.com

Beet Cupcakes

Before you say "eww!," bear in mind that the recipe creator's kindergartner loved these cupcakes! Roni at Green Lite Bites is always inventive, and showcases it well in these bright pink, good-for-you cupcakes made with a boxed mix that uses applesauce and beets to cut calories and boost fiber. They're the perfect "nice to meet you" gift for a new teacher!

Source: GreenLiteBites.com