Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Scientific research has proven that people who eat breakfast are generally slimmer and healthier, as it revs up your metabolism, makes you feel energised and helps to reduce cravings throughout the day.
Cereal – Aim for cereals that are high in fibre and avoid those that are loaded with sugar. Try my homemade granola (Pecan Pie Granola, Coconut Almond Butter Granola, Chocolate Chip Quinoa Granola, Superfood Goji Granola, Nutty Cinnamon Granola or Banana Nut Crunch Granola) with almond milk or homemade Pecan Milk, and I always add fruit, typically chopped banana and fresh berries.
Porridge – This is oatmeal that has been boiled and prepared slowly until a thick consistency is reached. Health benefits of porridge include appetite regulation, higher energy levels, oxygen transport, muscle recovery, strong bones and boosted immunity. I like to add a spoonful of Raspberry Chia Jam, a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few walnuts which are high in fibre, protein and essential fats.
Eggs – There are so many different types – poached, scrambled, fried, boiled, omelettes or my FAVOURITE: SHAKSHUKA… The egg-white are rich in protein, vitamin B, vitamin D and minerals such as zinc, iron and copper, whilst egg yolks are a source of cholesterol, calcium, vitamins A, D, E and K.
Smoothie – Fruit smoothies can be an easy way to nourish your body with essential nutrients. All you need is a blender, fruit and a base (water/milk). I tend not to follow recipes when making smoothies; instead I just blend together a few of my favourite ingredients. Check out my Zesty Passion Fruit Smoothie Jar or my Açaí Bowl recipes, or for something heartier how about my Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake!
Pancakes – Who said pancakes can’t be healthy? A simple way to make them healthy is by adding mashed, grated or chopped fruits or vegetables to your pancake batter, enriching it with vitamins and minerals as well as flavour. Try mixing in banana, pumpkin, cranberries or sweet potatoes. Another trick is to swap regular wheat flour for oats, flaxseed, buckwheat or brown rice flour, which are suitable for coeliacs or people following a gluten-free diet like myself! Try these Chocolate Hazelnut Pancakes or these Almond Butter Popcorn Pancakes. My favourite toppings include spreads like my Walnutella, Sticky Toffee Date Spread and Raspberry Chia Jam, or melted Homemade Chocolate with berries.
