Get Healthy: Want to enjoy a healthful day? Don’t skip breakfast

This column appears Wednesdays. It addresses topics related to the health of our community.

After the relaxed pace of summer, it can be difficult for families to get back into the routine of waking up in the morning and getting ready to go to school. In the rush to get dressed, gather backpacks and assignments, and get out the door, an important part of the morning often gets overlooked: breakfast.

Breakfast has been labeled the most important meal of the day. Numerous studies have been done examining the association of breakfast consumption with health and academic performance outcomes in young people, and many point to the fact that there are definite benefits to starting your day with a healthy meal.

Lots of kids and adults in the United States skip breakfast, despite the research that shows it’s good for you. While it seems obvious that full bellies would lead to better concentration, better thinking skills and happier kids, too many children often go without the first meal of the day.

Carson City Schools offer breakfast on every campus. Elementary and middle school breakfast is only $1.50, and high school students can have a hot, healthy breakfast for $2.75. A free and reduced-price program is available for income-eligible families. To learn more about school nutrition services, or to apply for free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch, visit www.carsoncityschools.com/nutritionprogram.

Breakfast as part of a healthful diet and lifestyle can boost children’s health and well-being. Complete, healthy breakfast with of a variety of foods, especially high-fiber and nutrient-rich whole grains, fruits and dairy products, really is a great way to start every day.