Throughout the world, nutritionists and dietitians agree that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Breakfast means ‘breaking the fast’. You may have gone up to 10 hours without food and drink, hence energy reserves are low. It is recommended that all ages eat a healthy balanced breakfast, ideally in the form of carbohydrate foods. Because breakfast cereals are often fortified they are a great way to obtain important nutrients, vitamins and minerals. They are also typically low in fat, cholesterol-free and easy to prepare first thing in the morning. Research has shown that eating breakfast cereals can enhance performance skills in the classroom. High fibre and wholegrain cereals are a great option. A nourishing breakfast is a good start to the day and will give you the energy needed to concentrate and learn.
Benefits of eating breakfast
• Breakfast sets you up with energy for the day ahead.
• Breakfast can help improve your focus and concentration.
• It has been shown that eating a healthy breakfast can help people to control their weight. (And skipping breakfast increases the risk of missing out on essential nutrients.)
• Eating a good breakfast is a great habit to develop through the teenage years.
It doesn't have to be complicated
Here are some suggestions:
• A fortified breakfast cereal with semi-skimmed milk and chopped banana or a handful of sultanas for a sweeter taste
• Porridge with a twist - try flavouring it with cinnamon and raisin or honey and dried apricot
• Wholegrain toast with peanut butter, topped with slices of banana
It’s better to eat something rather than nothing. On the odd occasion when you’re late for the bus, make sure you grab something from the fruit bowl, rather than the sweet shop.
Read more: Healthy breakfasts in a hurry
