Decades of research demonstrate the benefits of breakfast, especially for school age children. “Time” is the number one reason given for skipping breakfast, but with good planning, a healthy and delicious meal can be prepared and eaten in under 10 minutes. A high protein breakfast (about 14g for children and 21g for teenagers) promotes longer periods of fullness. This in return prevents growling stomachs and enhances alertness at school. Protein-packed breakfast ideas include eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt, nuts/ nut butters, and lean meats (ham, Canadian bacon etc.).
Eggs are my go-to food for any meal. They taste great and go well with anything, are super quick and easy to prepare, inexpensive and offer a lot of nutrition. In addition to protein, eggs (the whole egg that is, yolk included!) contain two important nutrients: choline and lutein, which play a critical role in brain development and cognition. One large egg contains 147 milligrams of choline, more than half of the choline most 4-8 year old’s need. Choline is an important nutrient involved in mood and learning. Lutein plays an important role in brain function for infants and toddlers.
Streamline breakfast and make it as efficient as possible by planning. Planning is huge! Next week will include “make ahead” and last-minute breakfast ideas.