We've heard all our lives that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it's true. What we eat sets us up for the day. Fiber and lean protein is good for us and keeps us fuller, longer. And skipping breakfast ironically ensures that we're far more likely to gain weight than lose it.
Children love sugary cereals. They love sugar! And the breakfast cereal makers know it - targeting kids with cereals chock a block with sugar and not a whole lot else.
Breakfast can be hard to do, with kids. They don't feel like eating so early in the morning, we're all rushing to get out the door and it's tempting to put a bowl of chocolaty, sugary cereal in front of our kids with the mindset of "at least they're eating something".
But what they are eating are empty calories, very little nutrition, and up to four teaspoons of sugar!
There are very easy, nutritious meals for kids on the go. They can eat bananas in the car along with organic take-along yogurts that contain no high fructose corn syrup. Oatmeal is a great idea, full of fiber and other goodies and can easily be sweetened with a little fresh fruit, or real cinnamon or vanilla essence. A slice of whole grain toast or bagel with an thin layer of organic jam (no extra sweeter is needed in these jams) is a kid's dream come true, as is a bowl of fresh fruit with some unsalted almonds or walnuts on top. Organic yogurt mixed with raisins and nuts is also a good idea and goes down well with the kiddos.
But there are also cereals that are great for kids (and everyone else, too). Cereals with less than 10 grams of sugar are a good bet, and those filled with fiber, vitamins and minerals as well as protein can keep us full till lunch time. "Organic" does not have to mean expensive (and it doesn't always mean healthy either, make sure you read labels carefully). Going to places like Costco, or Trader Joe's can allow us to buy in bulk or by the store brand and doing this can ensure we eat a healthy breakfast for under a dollar. Can't get this at a fast food joint.
For those who enjoy a vegan or vegetarian option, there are soy breakfast patties or soy "bacon" strips that are delicious on a slice of whole grain bread and offer a breakfast high in iron, protein and fiber.
It's ok to enjoy a waffle or pancake breakfast. Isn't that what Sunday mornings are made for?! But during the week, do your kids and you a favor, and try out the more healthy, delicious (and often less expensive) cereals and breakfast options. If you wouldn't pour four teaspoons of sugar down your kid's throat, why would do pour it in their cereal bowl?
This list of breakfast options is not exhaustive! Feel free to add your own suggestions or recipes in the comments section!
For healthy and delicious cereals, click here : http://www.goodguide.com/browse/255780/top?filter=cereal#filter=cereal&page=1&action=top
Do you want to know how much sugar per serving are in well known brands? Click here : http://www.communityhealth.dhhs.state.nc.us/dental/ed_resources/Sugar_In_Cereal.pdf
Tell Us
What's your favorite breakfast? Were you aware of the huge amount of sugar in some breakfast cereals, particularly those aimed at kids?