The start of a new school year marks a new beginning for everyone, not just students. There’s something about the fall season that gets everyone into gear, since this is a high-energy time of year.

To be sure you have all of the energy you need all day long, don’t skip breakfast! Most breakfast skippers voice either one of two obstacles:

  1. “I’m not hungry early in the morning.”
  2. “I don’t have enough time.”

If you find your energy is slumped in the afternoon or early evening, you might consider figuring out how to fit a healthy breakfast into your daily meal plan. It doesn’t have to be large or fancy, but consistent. The best part is there’s no need to cook anything either!

Here are some tips if you aren’t feeling hungry in the morning:

  • Start with something small and easy. Once you get into the habit of providing your body with some nourishment in the mornings, your body will adapt. For starters, try just a small glass of milk. Or, if you are a coffee or tea drinker, making a drink that is half milk, half coffee/tea as your morning energy drink.
  • Try a carbohydrate-protein combo if your stomach is on edge in the morning. A 6-ounce Greek yogurt cup or one slice of toast with peanut butter can fit the bill.
  • Try a pre-made drinkable yogurt or smoothie, or make your own.
  • Pack a breakfast to go and enjoy it mid-morning while at work. This can be as simple as a piece of fruit with a granola bar, a piece of string cheese or a packaged yogurt parfait.

Quick and Easy Breakfast Ideas

  • Quick oats are simple and easy. You can either make this on the stovetop, or you can use a microwave. If you use Quick Oats, they will cook in one and a half to two minutes in the microwave. For added nutrition, use half milk, half water, according to package directions. Add fruit and/or nuts afterward, with a touch of honey or sugar if desired.
  • Instead of sugary syrup, top a frozen waffle with Greek vanilla yogurt and freshly sliced strawberries or bananas.

Make Ahead

  • Breakfast muffins can be made on the weekend or on a day off and be stored in the freezer in zipper freezer bags. Just grab one and thaw or microwave for 30 seconds, or take it with you on your way out the door on busy workdays.
  • You can also simply bake egg muffins by first scrambling up 4 eggs, 1/4 cup milk and 2-3 tbsp. shredded cheese. Then, pour into 6 muffin cups coated with vegetable spray, and bake for 20 minutes. Or you can try these mini quiches. All can keep in the refrigerator for two days, or be frozen for up to a month.

Get into the breakfast habit this year. You’ll feel better, and possibly even increase your productivity! Bon Appétit!