We’re settling into September, the days are getting shorter, the coats are coming out and the school term has crept up on us all of a sudden.

For many of us, September is almost like a mini “new year, new me” start… a fresh start to get back to reality and routine after the Summer madness. 

This is the beginning of a series focussing on nutrition for back to school.. suitable for the school-goers and also the grown-ups. Today’s topic is talking all things breakfast, and what a healthy breakfast is.

 

The most important meal of the day.

Breakfast is essentially, breaking the fast. The first meal of the day which sets us up for the day, kick-starting our metabolism and giving our first dose of fuel. Think of your body like a car, you wouldn’t go for a drive without some fuel in the tank, would you? The same thing for the body. We all need a good breakfast to get us going.

Firstly, there is no such thing as the perfect breakfast, but there are numerous options we can choose from, whether you or your child is a nibbler or a bottomless pit in the mornings!

The base 

A wholegrain breakfast base is a good idea for slow-releasing energy. These can include brown/wholemeal toast, porridge or a breakfast cereal that’s low in sugar (weetabix/bran flakes/muesli etc.) 

The colours 

Next, your colourful addition, which is generally fruit or berries in the morning, but equally any vegetables too. Chopping banana, heating some frozen berries, slicing some avocado are all options to add to your base to get some extra nutrients.

 

The protein 

Depending on your tastes, there are plenty of options to add to your breakfast for some added protein. Why not add some poached eggs with your toast, or a yogurt with your cereal? A glass of milk is also a good option, especially for the little ones who need plenty of calcium.