Hangry Hangry Kiddos

Ever heard the term “hangry”? Even if you haven’t, chances are most parents have experienced it – the mix of hunger and anger that comes when kids go too long without eating.

NPR’s Morning Edition featured a recent story that addressed the issue of “hangry” children in a larger discussion on nutritional therapies for children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

As you can hear here, the piece explores how nutrition can complement other therapies for ADHD. We were particularly interested to read that eating a protein-rich breakfast is a great tool for warding off those feelings of hunger and anger.

Protein, like complex, whole-grain carbohydrates, is filling and keeps kids feeling full longer than sugary, highly processed foods. So starting the day with a protein and whole grain breakfast (like Van’s Power Grain waffles!) can be a great way to ward off that hunger and frustration for kids with ADHD (and kids without it!)

We at Van’s are big believers in the power of protein at breakfast – that’s the reason we’ve created our delicious, protein-rich Power Grains Waffles – and the recipes below for protein-fueled breakfasts:

2 Van’s Power Grains Waffles + 1 T Almond Butter + 1 tsp Honey + Cinnamon
345 Calories, 14.5 grams of fat, and 15 grams of protein

2 Egg Whites, Scrambled + ¼ Avocado, Sliced + 1 Slice Tomato + Van's Multigrain English Muffin
249 Calories, 9 grams of fat, and 14 grams of protein