Unfortunately, children are missing out when they skip breakfast Unfortunately, children are missing out when they skip breakfast. Research shows there are significant bonuses to eating breakfast, in terms of nutrition, body weight, and cognitive/school performance Breakfast contributes less than 20% of daily calories, but significant levels of many key vitamins and minerals1 including: Calcium Vitamin D Iron B vitamins Nutrients missed at breakfast are typically not made up during the day2 1. NHANES 1999-2002; 2. Nicklas et al. 1998.

You’ve all heard the adage “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Let’s take a closer look at those not heeding this advice – and why

On average, 17% of Americans (age 2+) skip breakfast on any given day On average, 17% of Americans (age 2+) skip breakfast on any given day. As you can see, children start out eating breakfast, but skip more as they get older. There are many reasons… Busy schedules in the morning Lack of role model from parents Just not hungry Breakfast not available Early bus or school start times

There are a number of studies showing the link between school performance and breakfast eating. These are some short-term benefits research has found. Long term effects of healthy breakfasts on student performance are still unknown. Children who ate breakfast scored higher on tests. Murphy et al (1998) found that students who increased their participation in the school breakfast program had significantly greater increases in math grades, decreased school absences and decreases in tardiness. Prior to study, students classified from questionnaires as being nutrition-at-risk had significantly lower attendance, punctuality and grades at school. Six months after free school breakfast program, those students who decreased their nutrition risk showed significantly greater improvements in attendance and math grades (Kleinman et al, 2002) Among more than 1000 students in 3rd -6th grade at 6 schools, participating in the school breakfast program contributed to significantly higher scores on the Comprehensive Test of Basic skills and to lower tardiness and absenteeism rates References: Wahlstrom KL and Begalle MS. Top Clin Nutr 1999;15(1):17-29. Kleinman RE et al. Ann Nutr Metab 2002;46 Suppl 1:24-30. Wesnes KA et al. Appetite 2003;41(3):329-331. Murphy JM et al. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med 1998;152(9):899-907.

Generally, children who report eating breakfast on a consistent basis tend to have superior nutritional profiles compare to those children who skip breakfast. Breakfast supplies essential nutrients for adults, too. Remember too that kids who eat cereal frequently (at least every other day) – including pre-sweetened cereals – have better nutrient intakes than kids who don’t. References: 1. NHANES 1999-2002 2. Nicklas TA, O’Neil CE, Berenson GS. Nutrient contribution of breakfast, secular trends, and the role of ready-to-eat cereals: A review of data from the Bogalusa Heart Study. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 1998;67:757S-63S.