Breakfast gives students an edge

CINCINNATI, Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Many studies show poor nutrition hurts school performance and achievement so providing a healthy breakfast should be a priority, a U.S. researcher says.

Mary Pat Alfaro, clinical manager in the division of nutrition therapy at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, says one of the best ways parents can help children succeed in school is by making sure they have a healthy breakfast.

Alfaro suggests a child's breakfast should consist of a variety of foods, especially high-fiber and nutrient-rich whole grains, fruits, and dairy products including:

-- Fiber rich and whole-grain cereals with low-fat milk.

-- Yogurt and berries.

-- Toast, eggs and 100 percent fruit juice.

-- Whole wheat bagels and cheese or eggs with low-fat milk.

"Even 100 percent juice is loaded with sugar," Alfaro says in a statement. "Encourage children to drink low-fat white milk, or plain or sugar-free flavored water. Children should avoid drinks containing added supplements like herbs and caffeine."