What's for Breakfast, Mom?

WEEK ONE - BREAKFAST CHALLENGE

By: Cyrstal Flores, RD

Congratulations!  You have already taken the first step to take charge of your personal health by participating in Baby Boot Camp and now you are taking charge of your nutrition.  Let’s face it, we’re moms.  We are the busiest people we know!  We always put everyone else first and then what?  We are exhausted!  Now more than ever, it is important we take care of ourselves so we can do what we do best…be an AMAZING mom.  So, for this first week, let’s start everyday right…with BREAKFAST!  No, a cup of coffee and the crust of your toddler’s toast do not count.

Here are some ideas to get you started.  Bonus, most of these recipes can be made in a large batch to give to the whole family!

Oatmeal:

I prefer plain old fashioned or steel cut oats.  Prepare according to package directions and make it tasty by trying some of these combinations:  *Throw in 1/4 cup of sliced almonds and drizzle with honey or maple syrup * Chop up 1-2 dried apricots and 1/4 cup of walnuts * 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins and a spoonful of sunflower seeds

Egg sandwich:

In a small non-stick pan, add 1 teaspoon cooking oil and 1 egg.  Cook as desired.  Place on a whole wheat English muffin with a slice of Canadian bacon and reduced fat cheese.  Have a piece of fruit on the side.

Smoothie:

1/3 cup low fat yogurt of your choice

1 cup fruit (frozen fruit works great)

1 cup 1% or skim milk

Blend the above together and add in ice to desired thickness.  May sweeten with sweetener of your choice.

Fruit and yogurt:

Low fat yogurt of your choice.

1 cup of whatever fruit you have around (sliced banana, berries, mango, kiwi, melon…)

1 tablespoon ground flax seed/wheat germ OR 2 spoonfulls nuts (sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, etc)

In a rush?

Grab a fruit and nut granola bar, piece of fruit and a glass of skim or 1% milk (or a low-fat yogurt).