2011-09-08

Eight ways to start the day right

Mom was right when she said breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But what you choose for breakfast can make or break your day (sorry, bacon didn't make the list). Here are our top eight foods that help make your morning meal a healthy one.

With more hunger-fighting protein than traditional yogurt, it'll keep those mid-morning hunger pangs at bay. Learn to make your own.

Start your day off with a warm bowl of oatmeal -- choose rolled or steel cut oats.

Skip the sugary packets and add a little sweetness with dried fruit, applesauce or a touch of honey or brown sugar. Use your slow cooker to make getting a healthy breakfast even simpler.

Toss blueberries, strawberries and raspberries on cold cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes or French toast. Berries are high in anti-inflammatory compounds called anthocyanins, which may help reduce heart disease and diabetes, and improve eyesight and short-term memory.

Need a quick protein boost in the morning? Spread a tablespoon of the stuff on whole-grain bread, add to a smoothie, mix into oatmeal or spread on apple slices. Remember to choose the natural kind to keep sugar under control.

Easy and versatile, eggs contain vitamins A and D and the antioxidant lutein for healthy skin and eyes. Scrambled, soft-boiled, poached or over easy, serve with whole-grain toast for a stay-with-you breakfast.

Sprinkle flaxseeds on yogurt or oatmeal, or blend in your morning smoothie or muffin batter. This high-powered seed adds extra omega-3 fat, fiber and protein.

Top low-fat cottage cheese with fresh fruit for an on-the-go breakfast that will leave you satisfied.

A bowl of whole-grain cereal and low-fat or skim milk takes only minutes to put together. But watch out for whole-grain-cereal traps, like high calories and sugar.

Source: http://www.heraldextra.com

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