Well it turns out your mother was right—breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. Apart from providing a boost of energy at the start of each day, eating a nutritious breakfast is linked to dozens of health benefits, including improved daily performance and weight control. However, the unfortunate reality is that when life gets busy, breakfast gets skipped.
School is officially back in session and life is about to get hectic. While breakfast is a crucial component of everyone’s healthy diet, it is vital for children and adolescents. Research suggests that children who eat breakfast have significantly better concentration, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination, therefore, leading to better performance in school and athletics. Research also indicates that, in both children and adults, breakfast skippers typically weigh more than breakfast eaters. This fact begs the question, “Why?” One explanation is that eating a balanced breakfast, rich in fiber and protein, can reduce hunger throughout the day, helping us make sensible food choices at our other meals and snacks. For some, it would seem that skipping breakfast is an efficient way to cut calories. However, the hunger beast usually gets the best of breakfast-skippers, causing them to make poor food choices and eat larger portions throughout the rest of the day. Another theory behind the breakfast-weight management relationship is that eating breakfast is the beginning of a healthy lifestyle routine, including smart food choices and regular exercise. One good choice leads to another, and so on, until healthy habits are established. To illustrate, the National Weight Control Registry shows that about 80% of people who lose 30 pounds or more, and are successful in keeping the weight off, eat breakfast every day. Furthermore, studies suggest that breakfast eaters maintain a more balanced diet, richer in vitamins and minerals, than breakfast skippers.
For the month of August, we have been focusing on tips and tricks for keeping your family healthy during the coming school year- setting a good example, starting a healthy routine, and packing a healthy lunch. Finally, it is of upmost importance that you and your family make breakfast a priority. I promise that taking time to start each day with a balanced breakfast will help you and your family maintain a healthy weight and keep up with life’s challenges!

 

Today’s recipe, Tart Cherry Spiced Oatmeal Muffins adds a healthy twist to breakfast. It is a perfect combination of protein and carbohydrates, making it a quick and nutritious breakfast.