College

A nurse is lecturing a class of nursing students about nutrition in children. The students are given an assignment to plan a heart-healthy diet for an 8-year-old. Which of the following would be the best breakfast?

A) 2 fried eggs, 2 pieces of white toast with 3 teaspoons of butter, 2 pieces of bacon, and 8 oz of orange juice
B) 2 pieces of French toast, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 6 oz of grape juice
C) 1 cup of oatmeal, 8 oz of 2% milk, and 1 piece of wheat toast with 1 teaspoon of butter
D) 1 package of toaster pastries and 1 glass of apple juice

Answer :

The best heart-healthy breakfast option for an 8-year-old is "C) 1 cup of oatmeal, 8 oz of 2% milk, and 1 piece of wheat toast with 1 teaspoon of butter." This option offers a balance of nutrients without excessive sugar or unhealthy fats and promotes long-lasting energy and fullness.

When planning a heart-healthy diet for an 8-year-old, the best breakfast option among those provided would be "C) 1 cup of oatmeal, 8 oz of 2% milk, and 1 piece of wheat toast with 1 teaspoon of butter." This meal provides a good balance of complex carbohydrates, protein, and a small amount of healthy fats, which are important for a child's growth and development. Oatmeal is a minimally sweetened cereal which can be paired with fresh fruit to enhance its nutritional value. The whole grain in the wheat toast and the fiber in oatmeal contribute to a feeling of fullness and provide energy for a longer period, avoiding the rapid spikes in blood sugar that can come from more processed, sugary options.

According to health recommendations, a balanced diet should avoid high-fat and high-sugar content, which the other options contain in greater amounts. The first option includes fried foods and excessive butter, the second is high in sugar due to the syrup, and the fourth consists mostly of processed sugars. Healthy breakfasts should strive for balance and include items like low-fat milk, fresh fruit, and whole grains while avoiding overly processed foods and high sugar content. Moreover, involving children in the selection and preparation of their meals can contribute to better eating habits.