You've heard it told to you over and over again: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It is the first bit of food you eat after waking up, and it can often determine the trajectory for the rest of your day. Rather than introduce to you new foods as breakfast staples, I'm going to tell you why ordinary breakfast foods are healthy to eat in the morning. Why change an already good thing?
Oatmeal
Often depicted as a boring breakfast food in pop culture, oats are a complex carbohydrate that contain about 6g of protein per serving and a healthy amount of fiber for keeping your system moving (if you know what I mean). Oats are also said to help prevent heart disease and to boost your immune system. A powerhouse food like oatmeal doesn't have to be boring! Spice it up with these recipes, make pancakes, or make overnight oats to take the rush out of busy mornings.
Eggs
You can find eggs on any breakfast joint menu, guarenteed. It's a good thing, too. Eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats. In addition, eggs contain about 13 essential vitamins, making it a nutrient dense food. Another added bonus with eggs is that you can eat them in a variety of ways- scrambled, sunny side up, omlette style, in an avocado, or added into a breakfast bowl.
Yogurt
Yogurt is also a versitile breakfast food that can be dressed up or down. It is another source protein in addition to being a probiotic rich food, which helps to boost the immune system and promote a healthy digestive system. Greek yogurt has more protein than other yogurt varieties. Skip flavored yogurt to avoid unwanted artificial sugars, and instead add some fresh fruit! I often add fruit and yogurt to my overnight oats to make it extra creamy, or if I'm in a rush I just eat it plain with a dash of honey.
Fruit
Fruits such as blueberries, bananas, and grapefruit are classic breakfast sides. Blueberries are full of antioxidants, which help boost your memory. Bananas help to support your immune system, and they are a good source of healthy carbohydrates and sugars (fun fact: they're actually berries). Grapefruits are an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber. Not only does fruit have essential nutrients, but they can satisfy any sweet craving due to their healthy sugars
Many people see these choices as ordinary breakfast foods. I mean, they are served every morning at my school's dining hall. And for good reason! If you start your day with complex carbohydrates, such as oats or whole grains, and protein, such as eggs or yogurt, a well fueled mind can motivate someone to make healthy choices throughout the day. Can't go wrong with the classics.