Which of the following foods do you think constitutes a healthy breakfast?
A bran muffin
A supermarket smoothie
A cereal bar
A bowl of corn flakes
If you’re like most folks, you probably think any of the above would be a pretty healthy way to start your day.
In truth, experts say, any of the four could be a less-than-optimal choice — unless you know what to look for. At the same time, studies show that it’s vital to eat breakfast – this will increase your metabolism, help you think better, start your day off in a better mood and increase your energy. Skipping it can lead to problems in both the short and the long run, in fact most people who skip breakfast frequently consume a greater amount of calories and fat for the remainder of the day.
Smoothies – Smoothies are a great way to jump start your morning and on the road to eating your daily requirement of fruits and veggies. Chop up some fresh fruit, (frozen works too and creates a nice slushy) throw it in the blender with some ice, soy/low fat milk, ground flax seeds and for the adventurous – add in a scoop of Greens+. For a heartier breakfast smoothie add some yogurt or a little high-fibre cereal or wheat germ.
Breakfast Burrito – Scramble some eggs/egg whites or egg substitute, cracked black pepper and place them in a whole wheat tortilla. Add in some chopped tomatoes, spinach, a little low fat grated cheese, turkey bacon and salsa or whatever other kinds of veggies you like and roll it up. If you have the time add some chopped garlic and onions to the pan before you scramble the eggs. Be creative!
Yogurt with berries and granola
Don’t like plain yogurt? Try adding fresh fruit to a bowl and top it with some low fat granola and plain yogurt. If you are really crafty you can make your own by toasting some rolled oats until golden, mix with seeds and nuts of your choice, add in a little bit of honey to bind, sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg. Bake at 350 for 15 – 20 minutes.
Perfect Oatmeal
2 cups of water, 1 cup of regular rolled oats, cinnamon to taste, ½ cup of raisins, sprinkle with chopped walnuts, sliced almonds etc. When the water boils add in oatmeal and cook for 5 minutes – add in remaining ingredients and serve with a splash of milk or soy if desired.
Still not really a morning ‘food’ person? If the thought of even having a smoothie upsets your stomach at least try a piece of fruit or a handful of almonds. Even better if you can do both –oh and don’t forget to drink a nice big glass of water as soon as you wake up. Eating breakfast and drinking water in the morning will do wonders for your fitness goals.
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