Mornings are a busy time, especially if you’re rushing off to work and daycare, or you have older kids to see off to school. Sometimes, during the morning frenzy, it can be hard to remember to make time for breakfast, but, like breakfast cereal commercials have been saying for as long as there have been breakfast cereal commercials, a good breakfast is an important part of starting the day off right.
We’ve heard it more times than we can recall: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But what about breakfast is so important, and how does a good breakfast impact Baby’s overall health?
Benefits of breakfast
After a long period of rest, our bodies need to be replenished to fuel our days. The Mayo Clinic reports that children who eat a healthy breakfast are more alert, and will have better concentration throughout the day. They are also more likely to meet their daily nutritional goals and maintain a healthy body weight.
What makes a good breakfast?
There may be days when it’s tempting to toss a breakfast pastry on a plate and call it a morning, but a balanced breakfast is an important ingredient for good health. At the core of a healthy breakfast should be whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and fruits or veggies. While that may seem like a lot to include in a short amount of time, the preparation doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Here are some quick breakfast ideas that will help feed Baby’s nutritional needs!
Let’s get cooking…
- Egg scramble with toast: This quick and easy breakfast is a breeze to make. Scramble up some eggs, fresh vegetables, and low-fat shredded cheese while the bread toasts. Pick a whole-grain bread, which is higher in fiber than white bread, and packed with more nutrients. To save some time in the morning, chop the veggies up the night before, or use leftovers from dinner.
- Yogurt with granola and berries: If Baby has a sweet tooth, this breakfast is sure to please. Unlike sugary breakfasts options like donuts or muffins, this well-balanced choice offers natural sweetness and a great nutritional punch. Use their favorite berries (strawberries and blueberries are a nice topping) and mix it all up. The best part? This one can be ready in no time.
- Muffins and bacon: Yes, you read that right – it can be healthy with the right ingredients. In a mini muffin tray, prepare some high-fiber bran muffins with raisins, which will be easy for them to pick up and eat. If you make a little extra, these muffins can last through the week and save you some effort later. Served with a side of turkey bacon, which is a good source of protein that is also low in fat, you’ve almost got an entire meal. Pour a glass of milk, slice up an apple, and violá! All food groups are covered.
Tips
Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, April 8 2014. Web.
