How to Jumpstart Your Family's Day with Breakfast

Are you a breakfast eater? Not everyone is, and for different reasons. Unfortunately, there’s no getting around it: breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day! And, even if you are on the breakfast wagon, it can be challenging to feed a diverse group of tastes and interests first thing in the morning. How can you make sure everyone in your family is getting the nutrients they need? Keep reading for some healthy breakfast suggestions.

Are you a breakfast eater? Not everyone is, and for different reasons. Perhaps you skip breakfast because you don’t have enough time to eat something before heading out the door, or maybe (like me) you’re just not all that hungry in the early morning hours.

Unfortunately, there’s no getting around it: breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day! We all need to eat something in the morning to give our bodies the fuel they need to concentrate in school, work more efficiently, and have the energy to move and function normally.

But, even if you are on the breakfast wagon, it can be challenging to feed a diverse group of tastes and interests first thing in the morning. How can you make sure everyone in your family is getting the nutrients they need? Try these suggestions:

Fruit and Cereal. Keep a variety of whole-grain cereals on hand to satisfy finicky eaters. Most cereals are fortified with additional vitamins to make them a more well-rounded meal, but you can add even more nutrients and flavor by pouring fat-free milk, skim milk or soy milk in and topping the whole thing off with fruits, such as potassium-rich bananas, vitamin C-filled strawberries, or antioxidant-rich blueberries. If fresh berries are out of season, stock up on frozen varieties and thaw them out in the refrigerator overnight.

Granola and Yogurt. Granola made with whole grains, raisins, and nuts such as almonds and pecans is full of fiber, which helps you feel fuller longer and cleanses your digestive system. Mix granola into yogurt to enjoy it with the probiotic yogurt cultures, which are also beneficial for clearing out harmful bacteria.

Peanut Butter and Toast. Reduced-fat peanut butter is an excellent source of protein, a natural fuel that keeps your muscles functioning optimally and your brain sharp. Look for 100 percent whole-wheat bread (not breads made partially with whole wheat) for a fiber-rich, tasty treat.

Fruity Smoothies. Toss your favorite fruits into a blender with some ice and add skim milk, yogurt or soy milk to make a wholesome drink. Other things to consider adding: honey, peanut butter, protein powder, flaxseed,carrot juice, apple juice, and more. The possibilities are endless!

If you’re like me and you’re just not hungry when you wake up in the morning, try waiting an hour or two before eating something. You may find that your body adjusts to having nourishment and it might become easier to make breakfast a regular part of your daily nutrition. Even if you don’t eat immediately upon rising, by ingesting something at some point in the morning you can still get the nutrients you need to keep you going all day.

Stop making excuses! With the above information you’re already steps ahead in making sure you get a healthy start to your day. You may be surprised at what a difference a little breakfast can make.