Breakfast should provide energy for the day ahead.
Breakfast is the first meal of the day and may contain fruit, protein, baked goods or cereals. Some people like light breakfasts, while others like heavy breakfasts. Often, the size and type of a person's breakfast depends on how much activity a person is involved in throughout the day. A person who sits most of the day only requires a light breakfast to get through, while an active person requires a heavier breakfast with protein and carbohydrates for energy. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Fruits
Fruits are an essential component of the human diet. They contain vitamins and nutrients that help people function properly and stay healthy. A bowl of assorted cut fruit for breakfast, fruit and yogurt or a whole fruit or two makes a healthy light breakfast. However, even inactive people need protein. Add some nuts or an egg to your breakfast, no matter how inactive your day is going to be.
Grains
Grains provide fiber, which is good for your heart and digestive health, nutrients and vitamins. Grains that work well as breakfast food include oatmeal, cereal, granola, bran, whole grain breads and bagels. Add some granola to a cup of fruit yogurt or oatmeal with fruit to get your grain in your breakfast. Alternatively, have a bagel, toast or bran muffin with a fruit cup or whole fruit.
Dairy
Dairy food provides calcium and vitamins your body needs. Some also provide healthy bacteria that help your body fight unhealthy bacteria. Have some yogurt with your breakfast to get your dairy intake. If you have hot or cold cereal, add milk to get your dairy. If you cannot incorporate dairy into your breakfast food, drink a glass of low-fat milk with your breakfast.
Protein
Protein develops muscle as well as provides an energy source for your body. Protein shakes, eggs, bacon, ham and corned beef are common sources of breakfast protein. However, not all are healthy. If you want a less fattening source of breakfast protein, have turkey bacon, low-fat corned beef hash, only egg whites or low-fat ham.
Baked Goods
Baked goods are a popular breakfast choice. Breakfast baked goods can include healthy grains and fruits or they can be sugary and fatty. Waffles, pancakes, muffins, donuts, breads and French toast are some examples of breakfast baked goods. Eat them with dairy, protein and fruit for a balanced, if not completely healthy, breakfast.
