Quick Breakfast Ideas

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, a common time-tested adage, and of course the most ignored one too. It helps the body get its energy flow and replenishes it with vital nutrients following the gap of seven to eight hours after the dinner meal.

Mornings are generally hectic and to be on time for work or school, one tends to skip this important meal and hence, there is a need to ensure an adequate and healthy breakfast. Moreover, its preparation need not be difficult or time-consuming.

Studies indicate that people who consume a healthy breakfast can handle the pressure of the day better than those who don't. This is simply because our body is not stressed due to starvation, and as the brain is being replenished continually and sufficiently it produces hormones that make people energized to start a new day, and thereby make them productive.

Furthermore, it also helps one maintain a good weight and improves one's performance. Here are some ideas that are quick and easy, to get around to fixing a good meal.

Fruit Salad with Cheese: This is easy to make as it requires very little effort. Cut any fruits of your choice. Next, cut small cubes of cheese or grate it. Then, sprinkle the cheese over the fruits, and toss in a few chopped walnuts or almonds. This is a good choice for a quick meal.

Protein Shake: Blend with low-fat milk or soy milk, some whey powder, a few berries, and a tablespoon of oatmeal (if you enjoy the taste), in a blender. Oatmeal would make this shake creamy to taste, and would be very filling too.

Smoothies: These are very easy to make and for those who enjoy yogurt, this blend would provide you with a lot of nutrients. Use fresh low-fat yogurt or full fat for children and toss in some fresh fruits of your choice. Add a few dried fruits as well. Blend it all up.

Eggs: Eggs are full of energy and protein. Go more for the white than the yolk. Scramble them, make an omelet or have them sunny side up, sprinkle a little cheese, add in a few mushrooms, and you are all set to eat. They can be eaten alone or with some toast too.

Pancakes: Pancake batter can be prepared a day ahead, or even purchased from the stores. Just melt it in oil or butter on a hot griddle, and pour the pancake batter. Top it up with your choice of vegetables, toss it on the other side, and they are ready to eat.

Milk and Toast: Have a glass of milk, skim or full, with or without cereals, a slice of whole grain or multi-grain toast with peanut butter, and a fruit if you wish. This would keep you full easily until it is time for the mid-morning snack.

Leftover Rolls: Use the leftover dinner for this, either in a sandwich, topped on a pancake, or pressed between buns made of whole grain. Grill it if you wish with some extra cheese and enjoy the yummy breakfast.

Waffles: If you enjoy baking, make a load of these and keep, else pick up good quality ones from the store. Avoid dipping them in sugar syrups. Instead use honey, peanut butter, raisins, almonds, or other dry fruits to increase their protein or fiber content.

Following the aforementioned ideas, would help one save time as well as not miss out on this important meal. As one makes it a regular habit, he/she can be assured to find out new ways to add innovative ideas to their menu list.