Unfortunately, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I say unfortunately, because many of us don't eat a healthy breakfast. Our lives are so busy, we are rushing to get the kids ready, then rushing to work. Many parents will provide breakfast for the kids, but then not eat any themselves. This sets a poor example for our children and increases the chances that they will abandon breakfast themselves.
If you are dieting, you should realize that skipping breakfast increases the chance of a poorly chosen mid-morning snack. Studies show that those who skip breakfast usually eat more during the day than those who start their day with a healthy breakfast.
So, how can we resolve the morning rush with the need to stop and eat a healthy breakfast? I won't even say to get up earlier, because for most of us, that isn't happening. But if we plan ahead, we can have a healthy breakfast every morning, even if we eat it as we dash out the door.
There's no law that says you have to eat breakfast foods for breakfast. Let us reconsider breakfast, choosing easy to prepare foods or meals that can be prepared ahead and then microwaved quickly at the last minute.
Here are some breakfast ideas to get you started.
1. Teens tell me that their hands down favorite breakfast is cold leftover pizza. You can plan leftovers the same way you plan the meal.
2. Try yogurt and fruit, or yogurt and granola. You can even get a kids yogurt that doesn't require a spoon- eat on the go.
3. A breakfast smoothie or protein shake is portable and quick. Blend, pour, rinse the blender, and take it with you. Set up the ingredients the night before to make it quick.
4. My families favorite is either breakfast burritos, ham and cheese croissants or sausage biscuits that I make ahead and store in the freezer. 30 seconds each in the microwave and we are out the door.
5. Make a sandwich. We like either peanut butter and banana or pimento cheese, both of which are easy to make quickly and take with you.
6. Grab a granola bar and a piece of fruit. Read the label, though. Many of the granola bars are not as healthy as you might think.
7. If you have a little time in the morning, make your own breakfast bowl. Instant grits, scrambled eggs, and a little grated cheese on top is quick.
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Diane Watkins is a traditional southern style cook. She enjoys cooking, teaching, and writing about good food and family. For more information on southern cooking and recipes visit her website at Easy Southern Cooking [http://easysoutherncooking.com].