Switching Up the Grain!

Grain products are a very important part of our daily diet. They provide us with carbohydrates and many other nutrients that give us energy and allow us to partake in our daily activities and tasks.  Canada’s Food Guide recommends that we get most of our grain products by consuming whole grains.   Whole grains are not processed in the way white breads, cereals, and crackers are and therefore are a great source of nutrition when eaten in appropriate portions.

Many of our KES Breakfast Clubs tend to serve the same grains each week; whole wheat bread, bagels, crackers and whole grain cereals such as Cheerios and Mini Wheats. These choices are safe, basic and simple.  We think they are perfect, but if you are looking to switch things up and add some new grain choices to your menu here are some ideas that are fun, different and can still be affordable for your KES Club:

• Pinwheels made with wholegrain tortilla wraps, yogurt and fruit
• Homemade trail mix made with various cereals that you have on hand, dried fruits, granola, etc
• Mini muffins made with whole grain flour and fruit/berries
• Whole wheat English muffins instead of toast and bagels.  You can make egg and cheese breakfast sandwiches with these…it would be a nice treat, especially for the older students.
• Use granola to top a yogurt and berry parfait

Switch up the grain and enjoy!!

Janel Genge is a Registered Dietitian with Kids Eat Smart Foundation Newfoundland and Labrador