Start your day in a healthy way with these fast and tasty breakfast options.

 

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Ideas for a healthy breakfast—even when you’re in a hurry

Mornings can be hectic, but even on the busiest day it’s important to make time for breakfast. According to the Mayo Clinic, people who regularly eat breakfast “enjoy brain-boosting powers, heart health, improved skin, enhanced immune system, stabilized energy levels, weight control and longevity.”

So, instead of skipping breakfast, try some of these quick and healthy breakfast ideas.

Mix-and-match in minutes

Healthy breakfasts include a variety of foods. Build a balanced breakfast quickly by mixing-and-matching complex carbohydrates, proteins and fiber.

Start with:

  • Instant oatmeal: Oatmeal is a whole grain powerhouse loaded with nutritional value. Instant oatmeal, although not as nutritious as steel-cut or rolled oats, can still be a healthy option and it’s ready in minutes. See this list of healthy instant oatmeal brands.
  • Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is another breakfast superfood—full of protein, potassium, probiotics, calcium and more. Instead of presweetened Greek yogurt, try plain Greek yogurt, with fresh fruit and honey.  
  • Wheat toast or English muffins: Whole grain breads are traditional breakfast foods that provide fiber and other nutrients. Instead of slathering on the butter, experiment with fun and nutritious toast toppers.
  • Eggs:  Eggs are a great source of protein and provide a variety of other benefits—whether you’re eating them on their own, in a sandwich or in a wrap.

Then add:

  • Fruit:  Ideally fresh, frozen or dried
  • Vegetables: Peppers, onions, beans and other veggies 
  • Nuts: Unsalted nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, almonds, peanuts) and peanut butter or almond butter

Make-ahead morning treats

By doing some work at night or over the weekend, you can expand your fast breakfast options to include foods like:   

  • Steel-cut oats: Steel-cut oats are the healthiest and hardiest type of oatmeal—but they can take up to 40 minutes to make. Luckily there are easy several ways to make them while you sleep, like overnight no-cook oats or overnight slow cooker oats.
  • Frittata: A hearty, healthy egg dish packed with vegetables made on the weekend can last you all week. Get inspired with this frittata recipe.
  • Muffins: From blueberry maple to bran banana, muffins can be a good way to get your fiber and fruit.
  • Fro-yo pops: Combine Greek yogurt and fruit—and freeze—for frozen treats you (and the kids in your life) will love to eat for breakfast. Try this banana berry fro-yo pop recipe.

What about cereal?

Cereal may be a quick breakfast choice, but not all cereals are healthy. If you decide to eat cereal, be sure read labels carefully. Pay attention to the serving size (it’s often smaller than you think), and look for cereals that are:

  • Made with whole grains—a whole grain (such as wheat, oats, brown rice or corn) should be the first ingredient
  • High in fiber (At least 3 grams per serving)
  • Low in sugar (7 grams or less per serving)
  • Low in sodium (less than 240 mg a serving)