Losing Weight Starts at Breakfast: Best Foods to Begin Your Day

Do you start the day running, scrambling to get yourself and the kids ready? If you’re trying to lose weight, your first task is eat a healthy breakfast even if you’re in a rush. Moms, don’t give into the temptation to grab a donut and call that breakfast. A healthy breakfast should consist of a variety of foods to refuel your body and by variety, we’re not talking about sugar. Think whole grains, low-fat protein, dairy and fruit. Here’s a list of some of the best foods to jump start your day:

• Grains – oatmeal, whole grain rolls, toast, hot or cold cereals, bran muffins
• Protein – eggs, peanut butter, lean slices of meat
• Dairy – low-fat or skim milk, low-fat plain yogurt, cottage cheese, low-fat cheese
• Fruits or vegetables – fresh fruits like bananas, apples and strawberries, carrot juice

Don’t have time to sit for breakfast? Munch on a high fiber dry cereal with a banana. Gulp down a cup of skim milk before you head out the door.

Tired of the same old, same old? Try yogurt topped with fruit and a little of your favorite dry cereal. Spice up cottage cheese by adding raisins and cinnamon. Make your own egg muffin with a whole grain English muffin.

If you have to eat breakfast out, choose whole-grain breads over donuts, scones, pancakes, croissants or biscuits. Skip the ham, bacon or sausage.

Eating a healthy breakfast will keep you from binging mid-morning or eating way too much at lunch because you’re ravenous. By satisfying your hunger in the right way, you’ll enjoy better concentration during those productive morning hours. When you select healthy options in the morning, it will be easier to continue good eating habits throughout the day. And that’s one key to losing weight after baby.

Today’s Action Step: What healthy foods will you eat for breakfast today or tomorrow?