Every mom knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating a solid breakfast will keep your energy levels up during a busy morning of getting children ready for the day and getting yourself off to work. If you stay home with your young children, you may find that hours have passed before you are able to sit down and eat something in the morning. Take care of yourself by ensuring that you have a healthy breakfast every day.
Breakfast Cereal or Oatmeal
Ready-to-eat breakfast cereal is quick and convenient. Some cereals, however, are full of sugar and refined carbohydrates that busy moms are better off avoiding. Choose cereals made with whole grains and that contain fewer than six grams of sugar and one gram of fat, suggests Purdue University. Add fruit, such as berries, a banana or an orange, and skim or low-fat milk for a complete breakfast.
If you prefer a hot breakfast that is nearly as easy, make some quick-cook oatmeal on the stove top or in the microwave. Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkling of brown sugar, a handful of berries and a splash of milk.
Yogurt Parfait
If you are in a hurry in the morning, make a yogurt parfait the night before. Alternate spoonfuls of vanilla low-fat or fat-free yogurt with slices of fruit, such as strawberries, bananas, blueberries or applesauce, in a glass, mug or disposable plastic storage container. In the morning, sprinkle on a small handful of granola, whole-grain breakfast cereal, chopped nuts or a crumbled granola bar. Another option is to mix the yogurt, fruit and a few ice cubes in the blender for a smoothie that is easy to drink during the morning commute.
Fruit and Cheese
Slice a pear, apple, melon or other fruit and eat with chunks of cheddar or Swiss cheese. Add a granola bar or a piece of toast, and drink a glass of milk or orange juice. This breakfast is packed with protein and a healthy amount of fat to help you stay energized and satisfied throughout the morning. If you prefer to cut your fruit the night before, sprinkle it with lemon juice to reduce browning.
Leftovers
Any type of healthy food can be eaten for breakfast; don't be afraid to stray from traditional "morning" foods. Heat up leftover pizza, spaghetti or chicken stir-fry. Choose leftovers that are low in fat and salt if possible. Pack these in small plastic storage containers the night before, and simply pop in the microwave in the morning for a home-cooked, ready-to-eat meal.
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