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We’re two weeks into the new school year, and already one of our biggest challenges is breakfast. I know how important it is to give my children a nourishing start, but most days we have less than 30 minutes for this vitally important meal. To complicate things (isn’t that the very definition of parenting?), each of my children want something different…each day. Unfortunately, I don’t usually have time for homemade pancakes or blueberry muffins (which aren’t actually filled with nutrient-rich ingredients) so cereal with milk, fruit, and eggs have become breakfast staples. I try to vary the cereal varieties I purchase to appeal to the masses and lately, both of my children have been experimenting with hot cereal (and by experimenting, I mean doctoring it up with honey, maple syrup, chocolate, fruit, and whatever else their imaginations dream up).
Apparently, my children are not the only ones who like to get creative with their hot cereal. Kellogg’s just introduced Special K Nourish, a brand new line of hot cereals and nutrition bars made with superfoods like quinoa, barley, wheat and oats. In place of chocolate chips and liquid sugar, the hot cereals include dried fruit and nuts that can be mixed in. Both the cereals and the nutrition bars contain less than 200 calories and provide 7-8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber.
I am a label reader so I appreciate the short list of real, wholesome ingredients in both the bars and the hot cereals. The bars are great for snacks between meals and can be eaten on-the-go. Of the three flavors (Cranberry Almond, Dark Chocolate Nut Delight, and Lemon Twist), Dark Chocolate Nut Delight was my favorite. It almost tasted too good to contain all of those whole grains!
I find that if I start my day off with hot cereal, I am able to meet my fiber needs for the day. Traditionally, I’ve cooked hot cereal (i.e. oatmeal) over the stove, which takes at least 10-15 minutes. It’s like Kellogg’s designed their hot cereal packages for busy moms like myself. Simply boil some water (I use our electric tea kettle) and then fill the container with water to the designated line. Mix in the fruit and nuts and you’ve got breakfast in just a couple of minutes. Of the 3 varieties currently, Cranberry Almond is my favorite. My kids, however, really enjoyed the Cinnamon Raisin Pecan variety.
While I’ve been secretly pretesting the end of summer, I like having a predictable schedule this time of year. Not only have I been able to get back into a mild fitness routine, I’m better able to plan our family’s meals so that we’re not eating out as frequently.
The start of the new school year is a great way to make changes, particularly those that affect lifestyle like nutrition. To celebrate the launch of Special K Nourish, Kellogg’s partnered with registered dietician and Food Network Star Ellie Krieger to share tips to help families eat better…not less.
Change for Good. First, try to tailor your food choices – making simple changes one at a time makes them easier to stick with.
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Try having one scoop of frozen yogurt instead of three. Or select fresh, crunchy veggies instead of chips alongside your sandwich at lunch.
Get Those (Whole) Grains. Quinoa is a high-protein whole grain that is quick and easy to prepare.
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You can prepare it like you would rice and toss into your salads or homemade soups. Or, simply serve it as a side dish.
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Also, Special K’s new line of Nourish products, including its first ever hot cereal and wholesome bars, are a great way to start your morning with a helping of quinoa.
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Get Your Energy Up. Staying physically active can not only help you keep your weight under control, but it can also help increase your energy.
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Simply going for a brisk walk after dinner each night instead of heading straight for the sofa, or walking to your local market when you need to pick up just a few items can make all the difference.
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Go Nuts. Almonds are a healthy snack that will leave you feeling satisfied. Plus, they have a crave-able crunch and are a rich source of vitamin E, protein, calcium and fiber.
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New Special K Nourish Cranberry Almond bars have eight grams of protein and five grams of fiber, and are a tasty way to incorporate almonds into your snack schedule
Timing is Key. Aim to eat breakfast within one hour of waking up in the morning to set a healthy path for the rest of the day.
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Space your meals out so that you’re not waiting too long in between, and incorporate one or two healthy snacks – like fruit or nuts – each day.
In addition to launching this new product line, Special K has partnered with Women’s Health to support FEED Foundation. To find out how you can be involved, visit Facebook.com/SpecialKUS
Images: Kellogg’s/Special K
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