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Effective January 1, 2024, the administration of behavioral health services will transition to Health Net. For additional provider resources and information, please visit Health Net of California or Health Net of Oregon .

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Breakfast with Benefits: Tips to Make Your First Meal Healthier

Date: 04/01/21

man seating having breakfast toast covered with tomatoes and eating it

You’ve heard the old adage that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but with busy schedules, it can be hard to grab anything – let alone a healthy meal – in the morning. The truth is that starting your day with the right nutrients doesn’t have to be hard or time consuming. We have put together five tips for making sure you’re off to a good start every morning.

1.    Mix it Up. When you’re putting together your meal, try to incorporate whole grains, lean protein or low-fat dairy, and fruits or vegetables. Eating something from two of these groups will get your day started out right – and help you feel fuller until lunch time. For a simple, easy to take-with-you breakfast, put a slice of low-fat cheese and an egg on a whole-grain roll or English muffin. You’ll have a warm, delicious and portable option ready in no time!

2.    Be Fast and Fit. Some days cooking a meal may not be in the cards. Getting something healthy in a drive-thru might seem counter-intuitive, but it doesn’t have to be. Look for options that are lower in fat and higher in protein, and try to keep the meal under 400 calories. Not sure how to determine that? Most restaurants have their nutrition information online. Look up some options at your favorite places so the next time you’re in a time crunch, you’ll have a choice in mind.

3.    Get Serious with Cereal. If you have time to sit down for a bowl of cereal, you can still make it into a healthy breakfast. Make sure to read the nutrition label and look for a cereal that is high in fiber to help keep you full longer. Also pay attention to how much sugar is included. If sugar is at the top of the ingredient list, skip it and look for another kind. Some cereal serving sizes are one cup and some are just a ½ cup. Don’t forget to top your bowl off with low-fat milk or a dairy alternative like cashew, almond or coconut milk to enjoy a tasty, nutritious combination.

4.    Sleep In. Taking a few steps the night before can make your morning smoother – and let you catch a few more winks. Search online for “make ahead healthy breakfasts,” and you’ll be rewarded with more ideas than you thought possible. From overnight oatmeal to perfectly portioned egg muffins, the possibilities are endless! If you don’t want to have to heat something up, make a batch of smoothies on the weekend then freeze them so you have one ready each morning.  Just remember to leave a little room in the container that you freeze them in because they will expand a bit when frozen. Simply put your frozen smoothie in the fridge the night before, and it will be the perfect consistency to grab on your way out the door in the morning.

5.    Power Through Weekends. Eating healthy during the week can often be easier than weekends because of the routine. On weekends, we tend to relax and loosen our routine – which can mean loosening our resolve to eat for our health. But choosing wisely doesn’t have to mean not enjoying your weekend meal. Just update your usual choices with slightly healthier options. For example, make French toast for the family, but use whole-grain bread, a mixture of whole eggs and egg whites instead of just whole eggs, and low-fat milk or fat-free half-and-half. The taste you love will still be there, but you’ll eliminate unnecessary calories and up the nutrition – giving you the energy you need to enjoy your weekend like you should.

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Please always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Programs and services are subject to change. Managed Health Network, LLC (MHN) is a subsidiary of Health Net, LLC. The MHN companies include Managed Health Network and MHN Services, LLC. Health Net and Managed Health Network are registered service marks of Health Net, LLC or its affiliates. All rights reserved.