From The Extension Desk
“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Studies have shown that children who eat something for breakfast are better learners. Children who have eaten breakfast are more likely to have better concentration, have more problem-solving skills, and better hand-eye coordination.
Smart choices for breakfast include whole grains, fruit and low-fat dairy products. The whole grains and fruit contain high amounts of fiber, which tends to fill you up faster and will delay symptoms of hunger for hours. When choosing cold cereal, look for whole grains, with 3 to 5 grams of fiber and make sure sugar doesn’t appear as one of the first three ingredients on the nutrition fact label. Sugar may be disguised as a word that ends in “ose.” These words mean that some form of sugar is in the product. Oatmeal is another high fiber choice and can be prepared in just a few minutes.
A traditional breakfast isn’t necessary, as long as it is nutritious and well balanced. Use your creativity and think out of the box for breakfast ideas, including ways you can save time in the morning. Try some of the following ideas:
•Mash a banana into peanut butter and spread over whole wheat toast.
•Keep muffins in the freezer and warm them up in the microwave.
•Most kids love French toast. Add a little cinnamon to the egg batter for variety.
•Keep pancake or waffle batter in the refrigerator in a covered bowl, ready to pour on the griddle.
•Let’s not forget fruit. Most can be just washed and eaten and will add vitamins that your brain needs.
For more information on breakfast, contact MSU Extension in Roosevelt County and ask for the Nutrition Fact Sheets entitled Mmmm…. Breakfast and Breakfast and Snacks. Call 787-5312 or email aoelkers@montana.edu.
