By Nealeigh Mitchell April 16, 2012
You’ve heard time and again that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But not every option will help jump-start your metabolism, keep you focused at work, or help you lose weight. Here are our top four healthy meals for instant energy and long-lasting health benefits.
1. Oatmeal and Blueberries
Craving something warm and soothing to knock the sleep from your system? A bowl of fiber-rich steel-cut oatmeal is quick, easy, and oh so nutritious. Skip the syrup to sweeten up the dish and opt for a handful of blueberries. The antioxidants will help protect your heart and boost your immunity. Add shredded almonds to make this a complete powerhouse meal.
Craving something warm and soothing to knock the sleep from your system? A bowl of fiber-rich steel-cut oatmeal is quick, easy, and oh so nutritious. Skip the syrup to sweeten up the dish and opt for a handful of blueberries. The antioxidants will help protect your heart and boost your immunity. Add shredded almonds to make this a complete powerhouse meal.
2. Veggie Scrambled Eggs
Whipping up a pan of vitamin-rich eggs takes less than five minutes and gives you lasting energy throughout the day. Slicing up your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can turn a plain version into an even healthier omelet. Not a fan of eggs? Tofu is a great alternative and is just as tasty.
Whipping up a pan of vitamin-rich eggs takes less than five minutes and gives you lasting energy throughout the day. Slicing up your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can turn a plain version into an even healthier omelet. Not a fan of eggs? Tofu is a great alternative and is just as tasty.
3. Coffee and Whole-Wheat Toast
Mmmm … there’s nothing like the smell of fresh-brewed coffee to rev your engine. Coffee sometimes gets a bad rap, but studies show it has a positive effect on mood, brain function, and physical performance. Sweeten the pot the natural way with Coffee Mate Natural Bliss creamer in Vanilla, Caramel, or Sweet Cream—it’s made with no artificial ingredients. A tasty spoonful will perk up your cup. Pairing coffee with a slice of protein-packed peanut butter toast will keep you satisfied until lunch.
Mmmm … there’s nothing like the smell of fresh-brewed coffee to rev your engine. Coffee sometimes gets a bad rap, but studies show it has a positive effect on mood, brain function, and physical performance. Sweeten the pot the natural way with Coffee Mate Natural Bliss creamer in Vanilla, Caramel, or Sweet Cream—it’s made with no artificial ingredients. A tasty spoonful will perk up your cup. Pairing coffee with a slice of protein-packed peanut butter toast will keep you satisfied until lunch.
4. Yogurt and Granola
Keeping a big batch of homemade granola on hand for time-crunched mornings makes for an easy grab-and-go meal that packs a punch. Mix in a cup of plain yogurt for added protein that will keep away midmorning hunger pangs. Just be sure to buy (or make!) low-fat versions. The calorie count can easily creep up if you don’t keep an eye on the ingredients
Keeping a big batch of homemade granola on hand for time-crunched mornings makes for an easy grab-and-go meal that packs a punch. Mix in a cup of plain yogurt for added protein that will keep away midmorning hunger pangs. Just be sure to buy (or make!) low-fat versions. The calorie count can easily creep up if you don’t keep an eye on the ingredients