Did you know that September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month? As the President says in his official proclamation,1 one of the greatest responsibilities we have as a nation is to safeguard the health and well-being of our children. Clearly, the national childhood obesity crisis we currently face is extreme, with nearly 1 in 3 American children overweight or obese.

Obesity in children and adults alike is most greatly influenced by environmental and behavioral factors, like unhealthy eating patterns and too little exercise at home and school. The question is, how do we combat it?

As the proclamation points out, there are concrete steps we can all take to alleviate this situation. And we must do so, because obesity does more than damage self esteem and social development. Those extra pounds can also lead to severe, chronic health problems during childhood, adolescence and adulthood, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and asthma.

Along with the “Let’s Move!” campaign for kids, the President’s Task Force on Childhood Obesity lays out strategies to address this pressing issue, including providing healthier food in schools, increasing opportunities for physical activity, and perhaps most importantly, empowering parents and caregivers with better information about making healthy choices.

One of the most crucial of all tactics in preventing and combating childhood obesity is ensuring that every child’s day begins with a healthy breakfast. A nutritious, low fat, protein rich, antioxidant-packed, easy digesting morning meal can dramatically improve the way children feel physically and emotionally, positively impacting their ability to think, learn and interact with the world. And it leads to better food choices for the rest of the day.

If you’re wondering how you could possibly create a breakfast that fits that impressive description on rushed school mornings, what would you say to 7 minutes? All you need is a blender, some high-quality whey protein powder, frozen fruit, and skim dairy, almond or soy milk.

Most kids love their morning “milkshake,” and you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes for them. Even better if you include a touch of healthy fat and the magic ingredient that delivers 5 servings of green veggies in one tiny scoop.

We’re talking about seriously high-grade nutrition that tastes great too. Don’t all children deserve to start their day so advantageously? Here’s to healthy, happy kids─our greatest national treasure.

1http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2010/09/01/presidential-proclamation-national-childhood-obesity-awareness-month