For National Nutrition Month, Lincoln University Cooperative Extension and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics staff have provided nutrition tips to run throughout March.
Breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, but sometimes it is the hardest to eat.
Studies have shown starting the day with a good breakfast does increase energy, helps you think better and can help with weight loss. No matter what health goals you are working toward, eating breakfast can help you achieve them.
Here are some ideas for fast easy breakfast meals:
Make instant oatmeal with low-fat milk instead of water. Toss in raisins or dried cranberries and chopped walnuts.
Layer low-fat plain yogurt with your favorite crunchy cereal and blueberries.
Blend a breakfast smoothie with low-fat milk, frozen strawberries and a banana.
Make one packet of microwave oatmeal with low-fat milk. Mix in 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce. Sprinkle with apple pie spice or cinnamon.
Top a warm toaster waffle with low-fat yogurt and peach slices.
Stuff a whole-wheat pita with a sliced, hard-cooked egg and low-fat shredded cheese.
Spread a flour tortilla with peanut butter. Add a whole banana and roll it up.
Spread low-fat cream cheese on a whole-grain toasted bagel. Top with sliced strawberries, blueberries or blackberries.
Add lean ham and low-fat Swiss cheese to a toasted whole-grain English muffin.
Not into breakfast food? Try some of these ideas to jump-start your day!
Peanut butter and banana sandwich on whole-grain bread
Leftover veggie pizza
Deli turkey, a slice of low-fat cheese and lettuce wrapped in a tortilla
Leftover rice mixed with low-fat yogurt, dried fruit and nuts. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
Start your day right! Bite by bite!
Sarah J. Eber is the human nutrition and health program coordinator with the Lincoln University Cooperative Extension.