5 quick and easy healthy breakfasts
Kids who start their day with breakfast have been shown to have better attention spans in the classroom. A new study has also found that eating a healthy breakfast may lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes in children.
Can it really be back to school time already? By now, your family has already started into a morning routine, but how can your kids start off the day at their healthiest? By giving them a breakfast loaded with nutrients. Kids who start their day with breakfast have been shown to have better attention spans in the classroom. As another great bonus, a new study found that eating a healthy breakfast may lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes in children.
Need some breakfast inspiration to avoid a food fight in the morning? Check out these five quick and easy breakfast solutions below:
The "Warm Up" for the day ahead: Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
As the fall chill rolls in, oatmeal quickly becomes a staple for many families. Though it might be a typically "healthy" choice, many instant oatmeals are made from refined oats and loaded with extra sugar. Making a pot of steel cut oats early in the week will make for a fiber and protein rich breakfast that will easily reheat. This pumpkin pie oatmeal adds minimal sugar, tons of flavor, and a healthy dose of Vitamin A from the pumpkin.
The Perfect "Frozen Breakfast" option: Make Ahead Breakfast Burritos
What's so great about these burritos? Oh there's so much to love in these…a serving of vegetables, whole grains, and satisfying protein to stave off hunger 'til lunch time. Making your own burritos will cut down on the sodium-laden prepackaged versions available in stores. Did I mention that they can be made in a batch and popped into the toaster oven or microwave during the week? Perfect.
The "I don't like Breakfast" option: Frozen Banana Milkshakes
Milkshake for breakfast, yep, I said it. These have quickly become a favorite in my house as a tasty breakfast option that feels more like dessert. The frozen bananas make for a creamy "ice cream" texture, milk provides much needed extra calcium for growing bones, and the peanut butter makes this shake filling. My suggested substitution, swap the chocolate chips for carob chips for great flavor and extra antioxidants.
The "Old Standby" improved: Blueberry Power Muffins in Almond Streusel
I hate to break it to you (and my husband…), but most store bought muffins are no better than eating a piece of cake for breakfast. But who can beat the convenience of a muffin that even a preschooler can grab on the go? This recipe tosses the "cake" reputation by adding whole grains instead of white flour. I love the healthy addition of yogurt to spare the fat content in this recipe. Load these up with blueberries, apples, or peaches, and you've got convenience and nutrition to go.
The "Most Versatile" option: Homemade Granola
Let's face it; most granola bars made for kids have turned into something pretty similar to a candy bar. Instead of buying the bar, think about making the real thing yourself. This basic granola recipe can be customized to your family's preferences. To add additional protein, try adding sliced almonds, and add some dried fruit like raisins for extra vitamin C. Add milk to eat the granola like a cereal, use it to top yogurt, or just put it in a container to go.
A little planning ahead goes a long way in the morning. What are some of your healthy breakfast favorites?
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