A healthy breakfast can get you started on the right foot. When your morning begins with the right choices, it helps set the tone for the day. It can provide you with energy, help stave off hunger (reducing weight gain), and even regulate blood sugar.

You may be wondering what exactly you should be eating for breakfast. Ironically, many foods we consider “breakfast foods” could actually be unhealthy choices. For example, a buttered bagel is not your friend in the morning, if you are going to eat a bagel make sure to layer it with protein. Add cream cheese to your bagel or make an open faced egg sandwich. Also, whole grain bagels are your best choice. Fruit juices and many breakfast cereals can start you off on a negative foot, all of that sugar may create a crash after it’s worn off. While, you can drink some fruit juice, you want to pair it with protein. And, as far as cereal goes, choose whole grain or bran cereal, over the sugary options.

What you want to accomplish with your breakfast is a well balanced meal that consists of complex carbs, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. This mixture can not only fill you up, but help you stay motivated throughout the day.

Some foods that can make a great addition to your breakfast are:

• Oatmeal
• Greek yogurt
• Wheat germ
• Flax seed
• Chia seeds
• Almond butter
• Berries
• Grapefruit
• Eggs
• Whole wheat bread
• Mellons
• Nuts
• Bananas
• Cottage cheese

You can pair different items to make your meal balanced. You could try a grapefruit half with a side of cottage cheese and a piece of whole wheat toast with almond butter. Another healthy option would be oatmeal with flax, berries, and milk.

Start your day on the right foot by choosing a healthy, well-balanced breakfast. Get creative, pair complex carbs with healthy proteins and enjoy!