March 23, 2012 | 5:51 pm

Healthy Kids Eat Breakfast

Posted by Sima Cohen

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Breakfast provides children with the energy they’ll need and the essential nutrients they need to concentrate on school work and studies. Research conducted as recently as 2011 shows that breakfast provides as much as 25% of the recommended daily allowance for key nutrients, such as protein, vitamin A and B6, calcium, iron and zinc.

Q: But really, why is it so important to give our kids breakfast?

A: Children who don’t skip breakfast have been shown to have higher achievement scores, increased focus and concentration in the classroom, and they are more likely to establish healthy eating habits that in the future will help them to prevent weight gain, obesity, and diabetes.

Q: Okay. So what is a balanced breakfast?

A: One that consists of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fat. Translation: one that will stabilize their blood sugar and keep them satisfied until their next meal, which is the secret for sustaining energy, keeping hunger and cravings at bay, and preventing weight gain.

The bottom line is don’t let your kids skip breakfast! Eating something is always better than eating nothing at all.

My best advice is to set a healthy example. Your kids look up to you! If you don’t eat breakfast, than why should they? If they see you eat, chances are they will mimic you and do the same. Problem solved! I believe that establishing this important habit ensures that they will grow up with healthy eating habits, understanding that food is fuel and that it’s good for them. And that is absolutely invaluable.

Peace & Breakfast,
Sima