Celebrate National Breakfast Week
March 8, 2012
It seems there's a holiday for everything - and this is certainly no different. This week marks National Breakfast Week.
Eating a nutritious meal is important, especially for kids.
"Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it helps keep kids alert and focused on learning," said U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
Various studies have shown that children who eat a morning meal do better in school. They perform better on tests, are more attentive in class and have fewer hunger-related disruptive behaviors. Overall, kids who eat breakfast are more alert, focused and ready to learn.
In addition, children who eat a healthy and balanced breakfast are less likely to overeat later in the day which can be the difference between being overweight and achieving a healthy weight, according to TheDailyMeal.com.
But eating a good breakfast isn't just important for youngsters. Parents, especially moms pursuing a college education, can benefit in several ways by enjoying a morning meal.
Whether you choose a bowl of cereal or something a little more substantial, breakfast can help your mental focus and concentration throughout the day.
"Without eating breakfast, you're more vulnerable to cravings and less likely to make healthy choices in the morning and throughout the day," registered dietician Susan Kraus told EverydayHealth.com.
Experts say in order to reap the greatest benefits from breakfast it's important to stay away from sugary cereals and treats like doughnuts and pastries. These items may taste good and temporarily fill you up, but you'll most likely be hungry again soon. Pairing these items with coffee isn't a good idea, either - you'll just be setting yourself up for mid-morning sluggishness!
So what should you eat?
"For sustainable energy, partner high-fiber foods with proteins that promote alertness, like egg whites, turkey, chicken, fish and lean meats," Kraus advises on EverydayHealth.com. "Breakfast can also be a smoothie, a slice of pizza or waffles with fruit. It can be a homemade high-fiber muffin made with added egg whites and milk, nonfat dry milk powder, or whey powder instead of water to embellish the protein content."
Other smart breakfast options include parfaits made with yogurt, fruit and cereal and whole grain toast with peanut butter or eggs. Pre-made protein bars may also be a good alternative.
If your busy morning routine gets in the way of your eating breakfast on a regular basis, try getting up a few minutes early, preparing your favorite items in advance or eating on your way to school or work.
Going to college requires a lot of work and sacrifice. Luckily many moms qualify for grants for parents and various college scholarships to alleviate some of the financial stress of earning a degree. Why not resolve to eat a healthy breakfast every day to help make you sharper and more focused along the way?
