The crisp Fall weather is a great reminder to slip out of our more casual summer routines and get in gear for the school year that’s under way. There is one routine that can provide us with the clarity and focus to start each day as our best selves; breakfast. In fact, studies show that children who eat a healthy breakfast score higher on tests and overall, do much better academically!
Developing brains need meals and nutrition on a regular basis to function. Skipped meals can affect a child’s ability to learn, behavior, and physical health. Yes, food does so much more than keep our bodies healthy, it also feeds our mind! Many food ingredients can have the opposite effect, leaving one with “brain fog”, feeling irritable, and the inability to focus. When we nourish our bodies with healthy, balanced meals, our brains can function at its best. But how can we fit breakfast in when its often the busiest time of day while trying to get everyone out the door on time?
Since kids aren’t the only one’s who benefit, finding quick, healthy breakfast alternatives can help the whole family! What better way to start the work day than with more energy and clear thinking to tackle the challenges that await you. Plus an added benefit, it can be a great metabolism booster. So let’s look at some quick “to go” alternatives for those busy mornings.
A breakfast of whole grains, protein, and fresh fruit are vital for a balanced breakfast, but many quick breakfast options are full of sugar and low in fiber, leaving us with that dreadful brain fog! Oatmeal and other whole grain cereals with at least 4 grams of fiber per serving and less than 5 grams of sugar (the lower the better) provide a quick alternative. Add some fresh fruit and milk and you’re good to go.
But if you need to eat on the run occasionally, here are some suggestions:
- Make egg & whole grain tortilla wraps the night before (store in the refrigerator & reheat in the morning)
- Have hard boiled eggs on hand
- Peanut Butter, bananna wrap to go (whole grain wrap, spread “all natural” (preferably organic) peanut or almond butter on it, place sliced bananas, role & slice)
- Yogurt/fruit smoothies (have fruit cut up or frozen, put ingredients in blender, pour “to go” cups)
These are just a few ideas for quick, on the go breakfasts that will leave you with the energy and focus you need to start your day. Be creative and discover your own delicious power meal.
