These days, parents are busier than ever.  Getting a house full of children dressed, fed and off to school in the morning can be a challenge.  You already know how important it is that your kids eat breakfast before they leave the house.  But do you know how to feed them something that is nutritious, FAST and balanced enough to maintain their energy levels throughout the school day?  Our team of Nutrition Experts understand how busy you are and came together to offer their favorite “kid-friendly”, healthy and fast breakfast solutions.

First, it’s important to remember that a breakfast that is balanced in protein, carbohydrate and fat is ideal for you AND your child as well!   A balanced breakfast will help to stabilize your child’s blood sugar which is important to maintain a healthy body weight, prevent fatigue and keep their minds sharp during a long school day. 
Here are some of our favorite breakfasts that take only a few minutes or less to prepare and can be eaten on the go:

Protein Bar- It doesn’t get any easier than this.  Rather than the standard, sugar filled breakfast bar or pop tart, aim for a protein bar that has a good balance of protein, carbohydrates and fat.  Some brands to try: Detour, Zone, Balance Bar, or Cliff Pro Builder.  If you want a balanced protein bar made with only natural ingredients, try Greens Plus Protein Bars.

Fage Greek Yogurt Parfait- Combine low fat or fat free Fage Greek Yogurt (a high protein, low sugar yogurt found in some grocery stores and any specialty market like Whole Foods), fresh fruit like berries, Splenda or Stevia to sweeten and a touch of vanilla extract.  Top with nuts like slivered almonds or chopped walnuts for healthy fat.

Egg and Cheese Roll-up-If you’re pressed for time in the morning, try scrambling enough egg beaters or scrambled eggs to last a few days.  Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container.  When ready to eat, top a scoop of the eggs with cheddar cheese and microwave for 20-30 seconds.  Put egg and cheese mixture in a whole wheat roll up and wrap in foil to go.  Or you can serve the eggs with whole grain toast if your kids have time to sit down and eat.

Protein Smoothie- In a blender combine whey or soy protein powder, skim or low fat milk, fruit like banana or berries (or both), a small scoop of natural peanut butter or flax oil (for healthy fat) and ice.  Blend until frosty and smooth.

Cereal to go- In a “shaker” cup with a lid, combine low fat or skim milk with vanilla protein powder and shake until smooth.  Pour over a whole grain, high fiber, low sugar cereal.  Top with nuts for heart healthy fat.