Van's International Foods Survey Finds Moms Value Quick, Healthy Breakfasts

A survey, conducted by Van's International Foods, maker of whole grain waffles, cereals and snacks, found that to save time in the morning, moms worry less about what to wear and the style of their hair and more about what to feed their families.

Nearly 70 percent of moms said they feel better about themselves when they serve a hot breakfast, and they count protein, whole grains, kid-friendliness and being filling as the lead factors for making good choices for their families.

"Mornings can be tough, and any parent can relate to the challenges of balancing me-time with family responsibilities," says Joy Bauer, celebrity nutritionist and best-selling author. "But breakfast doesn't have to be stressful. Quick options like Van's waffles that offer protein and whole grains can lessen some of the stress and offer kids a breakfast they love eating too."

Bauer created three easy five-minute waffle breakfasts – Waffle Happy Faces, Egg-in-a-Basket and Apple-Cinnamon Waffle Kebabs.

Other extras the survey found that take a backseat to mom me-time include sleep, showers and solitude –  82 percent get up earlier than they'd like, 50 percent have given up on long showers, and 54 percent admitted they don't get bathroom alone time. Some moms have found a way to take back more time for themselves – more than 50 percent have gone grocery shopping just to be alone.

To celebrate the modern mom and help make her life a little easier, Van's Foods and Bauer are giving away one year of free Van's waffles and signed copies of Bauer's books "Slim & Scrumptious," "From Junk Food to Joy Food" and "Food Cures." All entries must be received by Aug. 24.