Jump Start Your Day: Quick & Easy Breakfast Ideas

You keep hearing breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but who can cook when you’re already short on time? Well you should know that eating breakfast not only revs up your metabolism, it also keeps you from reaching for those powdered donuts later on. Here are six quick and easy ways to jump-start your day:

1. Whip up a yummy smoothie with bananas, orange juice and low-fat milk or yogurt. If you keep frozen fruit chunks in your freezer, you’ll save time and can forgo the ice.

2. Use olive oil to fry potato strips until golden brown. Pour scrambled eggs into the same pan until the potatoes are well cooked. Add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Buy plain oatmeal and create a variety of flavors by adding spices, nuts, chopped fruits, honey or brown sugar. Add hot milk or water and you’re good to go. Your taste buds will never get bored!

4. Make waffles when you have time, freeze leftovers and then pop those in the toaster to reheat later on in the week. Top with yogurt, fresh fruit and maple syrup. You can also bake muffins over the weekend and grab one before you rush off to work. Sure beats forking over cash for an overpriced one at the coffee shop, no?

5. Get creative with omelets. All you need are egg whites, fresh or frozen veggies and grated low-fat cheese seasoned to taste. Pair with whole wheat bread for a nutritious treat that’s sure to keep you powered up for hours.

6. Seriously on a time crunch? Then make breakfast to go! Grab a baggie and mix in granola, dried fruit and nuts. Just make sure to chew before you swallow.