Why a HEALTHY Meal?
In Bangladesh, nearly 75% of children’s diets do not meet the dietary variety standards, where a minimum of four out of seven food groups are consumed on a daily basis. High rates of micronutrient deficiencies are reported, including Vitamin A, iron, iodine, and zinc (FAO, 2010). Micronutrient deficiencies lead to delayed brain and muscle development. Rice dominates the Bangladeshi diet; its low nutrient density likely contributes to the high rates of zinc deficiency.
Without Thrive, children’s diets lack many essential nutrients for healthy growth. We focus not just on filling bellies but on investing in essential nutrients, with an aim to meet 50% of a child’s daily nutritional needs in each of our meals.
School Directors tell us that our healthy meals provide “brain power” and buffer a significant cost that allows them to educate more children. They report attendance is higher on the days we deliver. As one teacher said, “Thrive’s delivery equals 100% attendance!”
What is included in the THRIVE MENU?
The schools receive a carefully curated nutritional meal of a protein (egg or nuts), a banana, a seasonal pesticide-free fruit or vegetable. We serve milk once a week. We work with Direct Fresh, open markets and local vendors, and in-kind farmers and businesses to keep our prices down and quality high. Our meals cost .50 per child
Daily Menu
Banana
Contain manganese, vitamin B6, C, A, fiber, potassium, iron, and biotin. Benefit the heart, digestion, energy, bone strength, brainpower, and vision.
Egg
Brain developers. Packed with iron, protein, good fats, 9 essential amino acids, vitamins A, D, E, B12, omega-3’s, and choline.
Milk
Rich source of calcium, bones, and teeth. Packed with protein to give energy and build and repair muscles. A source of phosphorous, potassium, vitamin D, B12, A, B2, and niacin.
Carrot
The “perfect” health food. A good source of beta carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants. They are linked with eye health, reducing cholesterol, and as a cancer-fighter.
Orange
An excellent source of vitamin C, which is vital for a proper healthy immune system. They are good for fighting colds, preventing ear infections, and lower the risk of cancer.
Shingara
Contain manganese, vitamin B6, C, A. fiber, potassium, iron, and biotin. Benefit the heart, digestion, energy, bone strength, brain power, and vision.
Peanuts
A great source of energy, rich in niacin and vitamin E, protein, fiber, and manganese.
Cucumber
Packed with vitamin A, B6, C, E, and K, thiamin, niacin, and folate. Replenish water and minerals in the body to help with dehydration. Rich source of antioxidants.
Mango
Contain an abundance of vital nutrients, such as antioxidants, minerals, vitamins. Vitamin A for eyesight. High in iron boosts red blood cells and glutamine acid boosts brain functions and memory.
Guava
Boosts brain power!Chock Full of vitamins C, A, B2, B3, B6a, K and E, fiber, copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, and phosphorus. A high source of folic acid, pantothenic acid, thiamine, riboflavin, and folate.
Chana
High in protein and fiber, folate, iron, zinc, manganese, and calcium. Help with concentration, improves digestion, and strengthens the immune system.
SNAPSHOT OF A WEEKLY MENU
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday