Breakfast Is Important

 

Having a full breakfast is one of the best ways of improving our children's school performance. Many studies have confirmed that breakfast helps children "make the grade." They tend to perform better, as they are more alert and attentive, thereby achieving better scores. Studies also reveal lower rates of tardiness, absenteeism, and hyperactivity in school.

 

The skipping of breakfast also puts kids at nutritional risk. Children need more than 40 daily nutrients to perform at their maximum levels, both mentally and physically.

 

The first meal of the day, however, is not just kid's stuff. Breakfast offers similar benefits to adults. Eating in the morning can help you do better at work, lower your overall fat intake, and even reduce stress levels.

 

A research paper published by a health publication, reported that "adult breakfast eaters" (age 20 to 79) tend to feel less stressed, less depressed, and reported lower levels of emotional distress than breakfast skippers.

 

It is unfortunate, but true that more and more people are joining the skipper crowd and missing out on the benefits that a full breakfast provides.

 

The most common reason why many skip breakfast, is the lack of time. Hectic morning schedules mean that families don't take time for a proper breakfast, which if possible should include sitting at the breakfast table. For these skippers, "breakfast" in the form of a "cuppa" is enjoyed on the road, in the car, bus or train. A quick coffee at the office before the day starts is another very common sight. All this defeats the benefits that a proper breakfast brings.

 

There are no hard and fast rules about exactly what foods make a good breakfast. In fact, some people actually prefer "unbreakfast" foods like leftover rice and curry, noodles, chocolates and the like. What you eat for breakfast is important, as it should be nutritionally balanced. However, in the modern context, where time is at a premium it is a sufficient compromise, as long as you eat something.

 

For some children having breakfast in the school may be the answer. They offer a great alternative for kids who have long bus rides or aren't hungry when they first wake up. Check to see if your school offers a good balanced breakfast meal.

 

Whether you eat at home, in the car, on the bus, at school, or in the office, the important thing is to get a healthy start to each and every day. So plan simple, yummy ways to "break the fast" and get the morning nutrients your family needs.