Nutritionists say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day for several reasons. For one, it gives your metabolism a much needed boost in the right direction. And for another it keeps you from being famished later in the day which tends to lend itself to overeating. The most common complaint voiced by those who do not eat breakfast is that it is too time consuming. Eating healthy does not mean it has to take hours to cook. Listed below are 10 ideas for a healthy breakfast, all of which will take less than 5 minutes to prepare.
What Should a Healthy Breakfast Consist of?
A well rounded meal should contain something from all food groups. You will want to consume a good source of protein, fruit and a whole grain. It’s also not a bad idea to get a dairy product worked in if it is possible. Sometimes a dairy product has enough protein so that it can also count as the protein. This is the case with cottage cheese, eggs or yogurt. This combination will prevent hunger as the fiber and protein slowly digest and keep you feeling fuller longer. Fruit will help to keep your sugar level up so that you do not find yourself craving something sweet throughout the morning.
Healthy Breakfast #1
Purchase your favorite brand of whole wheat or whole grain frozen waffles. It will only take a few minutes to pop it in the toaster. When it is toasted and still warm, spread it with two tablespoons of peanut butter. Sprinkle some raisins or sesame seeds on top. Drink a glass of low fat or skim milk with this delicious treat.
Healthy Breakfast #2
If you have some crusty bread spread it with about 3 tablespoons of ricotta. Any type of full bread will work, such as Texas toast or any other full crusted bread. Top this with some sliced tomatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Then add a little bit olive oil on top. This healthy breakfast can be broiled or eaten cold according to the eater’s preference.
Healthy Breakfast #3
It only takes a few seconds to add some boiling water to a package of instant oatmeal. Top it off with one eighth a cup of crushed walnuts. This can be topped off with a little bit of raisins, or eaten with a fresh apple. Another option is add almonds to the oatmeal and slice one half of a banana to go on top.
Healthy Breakfast #4
Toss some granola and fresh berries in with some low-fat yogurt for a healthy, quick breakfast treat. You can make the granola yourself or use a brand of healthy cold cereal. Make sure the cereal has healthy grains, nuts and dried fruit for a well balanced breakfast solution. If you do not have enough time for that, you could even grab a granola bar to eat with a container of yogurt.
Healthy Breakfast #5
Keeping certain items on hand for crunch time can help provide the basis for a quick, but healthy breakfast option. If you keep a container of low fat cottage cheese in the fridge, it is easy to top a portion with any type of fruit. The cottage cheese is a dairy product, but it also has loads of protein. For the perfectly balanced breakfast add a toasted whole wheat bagel on the side.
Healthy Breakfast #6
For the perfect on the go breakfast, toast a slice of whole grain bread and top it off with some almond butter. The whole grain bread choice can be a bagel, English muffin or a healthy variety of homemade bread. Cut up half of a grapefruit to consume along with this tasty breakfast entrée.
Healthy Breakfast #7
Cheese toast has long been a favorite breakfast. Toss a piece of sliced, low-fat cheese onto a slice of whole wheat bread, bagel or muffin. Put it in a toaster oven just long enough for the cheese to melt. Watch it closely because the cheese can burn very quickly. A small glass of juice or a piece of fresh fruit complete this breakfast treat.
Healthy Breakfast #8
Cream of wheat takes only a few minutes to prepare. There are some instant varieties that are very easy to have ready in a very short time. Once it is heated and ready to eat, top it with walnuts, almonds or pecans. Add some dried, frozen or fresh berries. Add a small glass of skim milk and you have the perfect breakfast combination.
Healthy Breakfast #9
Keep a variety of healthy snack bars on hand. These are loaded with nutrients, protein and fiber and are very easy to grab on those mornings you are running behind. A healthy granola bar and a glass of skim milk or orange juice can make for a very quick, but healthy breakfast choice.
Healthy Breakfast #10
Whole Wheat or whole grain tortillas should be a staple in every kitchen. They are very easy to prepare for a quick breakfast treat. Place some grated cheese down the centers and roll them up. Just a few seconds in the microwave and you are on your way. Add some other quick items for flavor and nutrients. Chopped onions, fresh peppers or a few leaves of fresh spinach can wake up the taste buds any morning. Try adding a dash of salsa or a few slices of avocado on the side.
Conclusion
Set yourself up for success. Keep healthy and quick options on hand and make it easy for you to grab a healthy breakfast without having to sacrifice your early morning time. Eating a healthy breakfast does not have to take you all day. Keeping a few simple items on hand can help you be assured of quick, easy and healthy options for breakfast every morning of the week. Keep the freezer stocked with whole grain waffles, pancakes and a variety of breads and frozen fruits. In the fridge keep cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt. And stock the pantry with fresh nuts, butters and dried fruits. This will ensure you a healthy breakfast every morning!
