There is a link between good nutrition and academic performance, Caitlin Merlo, a health scientist at the CDC's Division of Adolescent and School Health, says research on eating breakfast offers the strongest evidence. "Most of the research has found that kids who eat breakfast had increased attendance rates, improved mood and improved academic performance," Merlo says. Despite most schools offering breakfast to students, Merlo says approximately 23 percent of children and 32 percent of adolescents skip the most important meal of the day.  If you as a parent are either too busy or need some ideas for quick healthy breakfasts, see below:
Power  Up  with Breakfast

The dangers of sodas and energy drinks
Kids who consume one or more 12-ounce (355-milliliter) sweetened soft drink per day are 60% more likely to be obese; both types of drinks, puts children at risk for nutritional deficiencies, dental caries, dehydration.  The bottom line concerning energy drinks is that medical professionals simply do not know the long-term effects of consuming these beverages. It is known, however, that large amounts of sugar and caffeine are harmful to our bodies. Click here for full article and another below. 

Energy drinks are under-studied, overused and can be dangerous for children and teens, warns a report by doctors who say kids shouldn't use the popular products.  By Lindsey Tanner  Associated Press  see here for this article

1. jitteriness and nervousness
2. upset stomach
3. headaches
4. difficulty concentrating
5. difficulty sleeping
6. increased heart rate and/or  blood pressure

Other articles for your better eating are as follows:

10 great health foods for eating well

50 best brain foods

The most nutritious whole foods

6 easy steps to create your "plate"

10 tips to a great plate 

Snacks Rule

Healthy eating for Vegetarians

10 tips to add more vegetables