Breakfast makes the grade
Not only does breakfast end the last 8-12 hours of fasting (sleeping), it has the potential to fuel a focused morning. Unfortunately, too many kids take a pass on the morning meal, leading to lack-lustre results in the classroom.
Research at the University of Ottawa determined that 10% of kids skip breakfast at least once a week. The survey of over 1500 children found that skipping breakfast leads to lower diet quality and high-carbohydrate, high-energy snacks in the afternoon and evening: those who ate breakfast enjoyed an even distribution of energy intake throughout the day.
Steady, day-long energy distribution supports a healthier body weight and healthier school results. Children who eat breakfast regularly have better short-term memory, perform faster on visual search tests, and have a better attention span. They also score higher on tests and have better school attendance. Important for students, parents and teachers alike, regular breakfast consumption also leads to improved mood, more energy and increased feelings of calmness!
Daily food foundation
Breakfast provides a great opportunity to start your child’s day on the best nutritional foot: kids who eat breakfast have higher daily intakes of calcium, iron and vitamin E than breakfast skippers. Surveys show that 62% of breakfasts centre on bread (toast, bagels). Boost your child’s nutrient quotient by topping whole grain breads with proteins like almond butter to provide sustained energy and help them feel full longer.
First published in Canadian Health and Lifestyle
