National Breakfast Month

Breakfast literally means “breaking the fast,” and it helps in refueling the body of its energy which was depleted during the overnight fast.

The meal helps to start our metabolism and burn calories rather than store them in the body. It boosts our nutrient intake and prevents binge eating, where unhealthy foods might be consumed.

Breakfast also helps to improve memory and concentration. It helps us maintain a healthy weight when eaten in moderation and correctly.

Ask yourself this: Are you eating a healthy breakfast everyday? If not, then National Breakfast Month is a good start to making it a part of your daily routine.

Having a variety of breakfast ideas might help make this first meal of the day fun and effortless. Since school is right around the corner (and has already started for some) and September is National Breakfast Month, I thought I would share some of my favorite breakfast ideas. 

According to Web MD, breakfast needs to have a balance of carbohydrates, fiber and protein. A healthy breakfast should have at least 5 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber and be low in refined sugars and saturated fats.

Here are seven great ideas that can be added to your breakfast routine. Celebrate National Breakfast Month by taking a few minutes each morning to eat the most important meal of the day. Happy eating!

•  — Named by my older son and eaten weekly in my house, this mini-quiche is a fun dish made from crescent rolls, eggs, cheese and milk. These can be made on the weekend and heated up in the microwave or toaster oven for a quick breakfast. My boys eat this with fresh fruit and yogurt. 
•  — This is a simple dish that can be changed depending on your taste buds. I like the instant steel-cut oats that I make for my boys. Here are a variety of recipes to choose from when making oatmeal for breakfast. 
• Breakfast Burrito — This is my husband’s go-to breakfast. Heat up black or pinto beans, spinach, salsa and add to scrambled eggs and finish with a sprinkle of cheese and hot sauce. Serve it all in a whole wheat tortilla for a complete breakfast meal. 
• Protein Fruit Smoothie — Use low-fat plain yogurt, frozen fruit, frozen spinach, a scoop of protein whey powder, ice and milk. Blend together and enjoy. The sneaky chef in me likes this drink. 
• Mixed grain bread with homemade nut butters — I spread my boys' favorite nut butter on a whole grain bread and top with sliced fresh strawberries, bananas or blueberries. I also sprinkle cinnamon on top.  
• Tofu Scramble — This is a great alternative to eating scrambled eggs. I add black beans, cheese, onions and tomatoes and serve in a whole wheat pita. 
• Breakfast pizza — My kids love anything on crusty bread. Here is a simple idea to serve for breakfast. Spread ricotta cheese on a toasted slice of bread, and top with sliced or roasted tomatoes. Serve the pizza with fresh glass of orange juice and turkey sausage for a delicious breakfast meal.