1. The Benefits of Breakfast

2. Some people consider breakfast to be the most important meal of the day…
Do you agree?
Why or why not?
Do you usually eat breakfast?
Can you tell a difference in how you feel on days when you eat breakfast and on days when you don’t?

3. Let’s Imagine You’re a car….
Need “gas” to refuel
Our bodies are like a car…they need food to refuel
You’re “empty” when you wake up.
To operate at maximum capacity, you need a healthy breakfast!

4. So… Why is Breakfast so Important?
Healthy Minds
Healthy Bodies
Studies show that students who eat a balanced breakfast:
Think clearly
Are more alert and focused
Have more energy and creativity
Have more concentration in class
Get better grades!
Healthy foods are jammed packed with nutrients and vitamins
Our bodies rely on these vitamins and nutrients to function and stay healthy

5. The Purpose of Vitamins & Nutrients
Vitamins, Minerals & Nutrients
What It Does
Food Source
Calcium
Bone Growth & Strength
Milk, Yogurt, Cheese, Spinach
Vitamin B
Produces Cells
Milk, Eggs, Peanuts
Fiber
Helps Digestion; Keeps You Feeling Full
Bran, Cereal, Peas, Beans, Fruits & Vegetables
Folic Acid
Metabolizes Protein; Helps Prevent Birth Defects
Leafy Vegetables, Whole Grains, Fortified Cereals
Magnesium
Aids in Muscle & Nerve Function; Helps Strengthen Bones
Leafy Vegetables, Brazil Nuts, Almonds, Soybeans, Halibut, Quinoa
Potassium
Helps Control Blood Pressure; Reduces Risk of Kidney Stones
Sweet Potatoes, Bananas, Yogurt, Tuna, Soybeans

6. Vitamins, Minerals & Nutrients What It Does Food Source Vitamin A
Necessary For Vision & Immune Function
Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Spinach, Fortified Cereals
Vitamin B3
Helps With Digestion; Converts Food Into Energy
Meat, Fish, Poultry, Whole Grains
Vitamin C
Protects Against Cell Damage; Boosts Immune System
Red & Green Peppers, Kiwi, Oranges, Strawberries, Broccoli
Vitamin D
Metabolizes Calcium For Healthy Bones
Salmon, Dairy Products, Sunlight Exposure
Vitamin K
Helps Blood Clotting & Bone Health
Green Veggies!

7. The Traditional Breakfast Foods
Eggs
Pancakes, waffles, French toast
Cold and hot cereal
Toast, bagels, muffins, English muffins
Yogurts
Smoothies

8. But What About These Choices?
Frozen Banana
Banana on a stick, dipped in yogurt, rolled in granola
Egg Burrito
Scrambled egg with cheese, rolled up in a tortilla
Cottage Cheese
With fruit
A Sandwich
Leftovers

9. Top Reasons For Skipping Breakfast…
“I overslept!”
“I’m not hungry in the mornings.”
“I don’t want to gain weight, so I skip breakfast.”
“I don’t have time in the morning for breakfast, I’m in a rush.”
Any others?

10. Did You Know… Does not maintain weight Tend to eat more
If you skip breakfast you are actually slowing down your metabolism
Tend to eat more
Your body starts to go into starvation mode…your tummy starts to grumble and you end up eating more throughout the day

11. Tips For A Successful Breakfast…
Make breakfast the night before
Make sure the food is substantial
Try having a quick on the go breakfast
Visit GVMS cafeteria before the school day starts
“You need to be your best, in order to give your best.”