We’ve been conditioned most of our lives to think that breakfast must consist of cereal, oatmeal, bagels, toast, and fruit or a combo of those. For this reason, I can see why many haven’t incorporated more vegetables, or any at all into our first meal of the day.
Set a goal of eating 1-3 veggies for breakfast, and then you’ll disperse your servings quota more evenly rather than cramming them all in for lunch and dinner. Spread it out: have 1-3 for breakfast, 3-4 for lunch, and 3-4 for dinner.
The vitamins and minerals found in veggies will provide you with more sustained energy in the morning, preparing you for your day ahead, compared to usual breakfasts which can contain a high amount of sugar/carbs often making you feel more sluggish after an initial short-lasting energy spike.
Breakfast veggie ideas:
– spinach/arugula/chard with eggs (as a side or in an omelette/scramble)
– onions/bell peppers/asparagus in an omelette/scramble
– baby spinach with cottage cheese and some olive oil/salt/balsamic
– sauerkraut/kimchi with smoked salmon
– leftover veggie soup that you’ve had for dinner (this is a great way to get in tons of veggies first thing in the morning)
– sautéed kale and bacon
– greens smoothie (your favorite leafy green blended with coconut water, coconut milk, or almond milk)
– any leftover dinner which contained veggies (veggie lasagna, curry with vegetables, ratatouille)
Are you currently eating any vegetables first thing in the morning?
Have fun with it — think outside the box!
Breakfast doesn’t have to come from a box!
Do you have a friend who is wondering how to eat more veggies? Please share this post with them if so.
Thanks!
Mike is a holistic nutritionist that helps people feel more optimistic about their health and wellness through changes in diet and lifestyle shifts.
He has authored posts and articles featured on MarthaStewart.com, today.com, and iVillage.com.