Breakfast for kids.
We’ve all heard it before: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day as it fuels us up getting us ready for the day ahead. Worryingly, a recent study found that 1 in 4 Malaysian children skip breakfast at least three times a week, especially in East Malaysia.
Of course, in our modern world where everything is rush, rush, rush, its understandable that kids rushed out of the house early in the morning may be groggy or may not be in the mood for breakfast. In the hurry to get the day started, some things may just slip through the cracks.
But there are reasons breakfast is the most important part of the day, like:
Breakfast recharges children and prepares them for their day
The study showed that our bodies lose 80% of our energy reserves while we sleep, which is why breakfast is important to break our overnight fast and kick-start the metabolism. Breakfast restores glucose levels, which is an essential carbohydrate that is needed for brain function.
A well-balanced breakfast supports healthy eating habits and overall health
Giving children a well balanced breakfast regularly improves their intake of valuable vitamins and minerals. And good nutrition is important as it supports their health, growth and development. Not to mention it can also start children on the road to healthy eating habits that will last them into adulthood. Breakfast can also help keep a child’s weight in check, as a child who has filled up with breakfast in the morning can last till lunch without snacking.
Breakfast is good for the brain too
Research has shown that having breakfast improves concentration and memory, reduces hyperactivity and leads to improved grades and better behaviour as they are full of energy and the needed essential nutrients. Children who skip breakfast tend to become tired, irritable and restless by late morning which can lead to aggressive behaviour and potential trouble in school.
For quick breakfast ideas, try joining this parents group on Facebook!