Outside the Breakfast Box

An American study found that people who ate breakfast had a higher daily intake of vitamins, minerals and whole grains. And, eating breakfast also correlates with significant long-term weight loss.

You can eat virtually anything you like for your morning meal as long as it is healthy.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• To save time in the morning, set the breakfast table before you go to bed.
  

• If you have a programmable bread machine, set it so that it starts making bread in the early hours. This will fill the house with an irresistible aroma and also provide delicious, healthy homemade bread for breakfast.

• If you have trouble eating anything in the morning, drink a cup of chamomile tea 30 minutes before eating. it soothes digestion and prevents nausea.

• If you dislike milk or have lactose intolerance, top your cereal with yogurt or top a whole grain bagel with grated cheese.

• Consider adopting the following Eastern Mediterranean tradition: drink a glass of water with your morning coffee. This leaves you feeling fuller and better hydrated.

• It is very easy to have two portions of fruit for breakfast. Pour a glass of pure fruit juice and chop pieces of fresh fruit over cereal.

• Spread whole wheat crackers, tortillas, or toast with peanut, almond, or macadamia nut butter.

• Reheat leftovers from supper or have a bowl of soup. In Japan, it is customary to start the day with a bowl of warming soup.