Healthful Breakfast for Kids

Give your kids the brain boost they need with breakfast

It's well-known breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Kids who eat breakfast are more likely to participate in physical activities and also tend to eat fewer calories throughout the day.

But, breakfast isn't just good for the body — it's good for grades, too. However, what's on the menu is crucial. Breakfast items rich in whole grains, fiber and protein, and low in added sugar, can help improve attention span, concentration and memory.

A balanced breakfast includes some carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. Carbohydrates provide your kids with the energy they need while protein helps maintain all bodily functions and provides sustainability. Fiber helps your kids feel full and also aids in digestion.

• whole grain cereal topped with fruit and low-fat yogurt
• whole grain waffles topped with peanut butter, fruit or ricotta cheese
• hot cereal topped with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, or cloves
• vegetable omelet with whole wheat toast
• bran muffin and yogurt with berries
• lean turkey on a toasted English muffin

Encourage your children to make healthful drink choices, too. Low-fat milk, water, or 100% fruit juices are good alternatives to sugary soft drinks or other fruit drinks.

When you're pressed for time, pour a bowl of Cascadian Farms Fruitful O's for your little ones. This naturally fruit flavored and lightly sweetened organic corn and oat cereal is not only good for kids' growing bodies and minds, it's something they'll be happy to eat. Pick up a box at your neighborhood Publix today.

Sources: www.webmd.com, www.choosemyplate.gov, www.kidshealth.org