A healthy breakfast does not have to take a lot of time. Stick to the basics and serve simple foods that are nutritious and quick in the morning. For ideas, follow these ten tips for nourishing ways to kick-start the day.

Ten Tips for a Healthier Breakfast

1. Oatmeal in an Instant – Instant oatmeal is great on a cold morning and contains fiber and vitamins. Choose oatmeal that isn’t already pre-sweetened. Sweeten it with raisins or fresh fruit.
2. Smoothie madness – Blend frozen fruit (bananas and berries are great), low-fat or fat-free milk, and 100% fruit-juice for a quick, tasty breakfast smoothie with lots of nutrients.
3. Go 100% whole grain – 100% whole-grain, fiber-containing cereals served with low- or fat-free milk are a healthier alternative to sugary cereals. Whole-wheat muffins with smashed banana are easy and tasty as well.
4. Eggxactly! – Boil, scramble, or poach eggs and serve on whole-wheat toast – they’re packed with nutrition and, in appropriate portions, are great for kids and adults.
5. Toaster Treats – Frozen whole-grain waffles take almost no time to make. Top them with berries, low-sugar apple sauce or sliced bananas instead of syrup.
6. Go Nutty! – Spreading peanut or almond butter on whole-grain toast is a great to get both protein and fiber.
7. Go Fruity – A fresh fruit cut up with a dollop of low-fat or fat-free yogurt is a great way to start the day. Apples contain fiber and bananas contain potassium.
8. Try All-Fruit Spreads – Instead of butter or margarine on toast, try all-fruit spreads, fruit butters, or even sliced bananas or strawberries.
9. Bagel Classics – Try a whole-wheat or sunflower seed bagel with low-fat cream cheese or peanut butter.
10. Breakfast On-the-Go – Don’t have time to eat breakfast at home? Keep whole-grain mini bagels on-hand or muffins, nuts and dried and fresh fruits that can be taken in the car (apple slices and bananas are also easy and not too messy!).