When you wake up before school, maybe you’re not hungry, or maybe you grab a granola bar before rushing out the door. But did you know that breakfast is, as the saying goes, one of the most important meals of the day?
Breakfast fuels you for the day—after a good night’s sleep, your body and brain need fuel to operate. And your body can only feel as good as the fuel you put in it! Chances are you won’t feel so great by 11 a.m. if you snack on a chocolate granola bar before school at 8 a.m.
KidsHealth claims that kids who eat a healthy breakfast perform better academically than those who don’t—and feel better too. Instead of an unhealthy, sugary breakfast or no breakfast at all, try some of Moorelands Kids’ quick and delicious breakfast ideas to be the best you all day long!
1). Oatmeal
I know what you’re thinking—oatmeal? Seriously?
Oatmeal doesn’t have to be boring. It is such a versatile breakfast option and can be delicious too. Start with some quick oats and cook with water or milk in the microwave as per package directions. Then, be creative! Blueberries, strawberries, bananas, peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate chips, nuts, honey, or even a teaspoon of your parents’ coffee creamer can make oatmeal far-from-boring—and incredibly delicious!
2). Toast
The opportunities for creating a healthy breakfast with a single slice of toast are practically endless. Start with some toast, and like oatmeal, be creative! Do you have a sweet tooth? Try some honey and peanut butter. Do you like fruit? Try peanut butter and a banana, jam, or a classic PB&J. Try it with an egg on top, or make a tomato sandwich.
3). Yogurt
Yogurt, like oatmeal and toast, can be equally delicious and nutritious! Plain yogurt is just that—plain. Spruce it up a bit! Throw in some berries or semi-sweet chocolate chips; some honey and peanut butter; add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit; or even top it with some granola or cereal—the possibilities are infinite. And, if you don’t have time to make a DIY yogurt parfait, the right store-bought yogurts can be a quick and nutritious alternative.
4). Smoothies
You are correct if you are sensing a trend with these breakfast options. They are designed so that you can use what you have on-hand and easily make a fun, delicious breakfast before school or work.
When thoughtfully mixed, smoothies are a great way to start the day and can be sweet without a bunch of refined sugar. Frozen fruit like strawberries, bananas, or raspberries are a great foundation and are filled with natural sugars. From there, you can add milk, honey, yogurt, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and countless other options to make a cold, refreshing smoothie. Even add some leafy greens like spinach, put it in the blender and voilá! A homemade smoothie you can even take with you on the way to school!
With these healthy breakfast options, Moorelands wants you to think of ways you can fuel your body for a great day. These ideas will get you started but think outside of the box! Your body—and mind—will thank you for it.
by Kyle Dedecker