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Breakfast is the Most Important Meal for Children |
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"Many children are suffering from muesli-belt malnutrition." Vincent Marks, British nutritionist. (June 1986).
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day for a child, as it provides the energy to face schoolwork, learning, or simply active playtime. In addition, it balances the daily distribution of food.
Keep in mind that a child should be fed properly because poor nutrition can lead to muscle fatigue, mental fatigue and--in the long term--make him or her more susceptible to illness.
A good breakfast should provide about 300- 500 calories. The recommended foods are: milk, yogurt, whole grain bread, (non-sugary) cereals and fresh fruit. For children, avoid fatty foods, industrial bakery items, soft drinks and stimulants such as coffee or tea. And in-school snacks should be seen as a supplement to breakfast and not a substitute.
Seven tips for a proper breakfast with children:
1. It's true that "early to bed and early to rise makes your child healthy, wealthy and wise". A routine schedule that includes sufficient sleep and breakfast is the morning is a great start.
2. Have your breakfast table ready with your child's favorite plate, cup or other utensils. This can make eating breakfast fun.
3. Wash fruits thoroughly to remove any pesticides, and make fresh fruit a routine addition to breakfast.
4. Encourage your child(ren) to actively participate in choosing and preparing breakfast.
5. Monitor their overall diet and hygienic habits, noticing if they skip breakfast.
6. Listen to your child during breakfast and make it a way to connect with your child, giving him or her a great start to the day.
7. Whenever possible, eat breakfast with your children.
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