5 Easy Ways to Power Up Your Breakfast

If you want more energy on those slow-moving mornings and are determined to stick with a healthy eating plan, make sure your breakfast packs a punch. Eating a solid breakfast every morning will get any day off on the right start and make it easier to eat less the rest of the day. Making some sound choices for that first meal - especially if you work out first thing in the morning - will give you plenty of energy and can even help you stay focused in the early morning hours.

Here are five easy ways to power up your breakfast:

#1: Down a Fruit-Filled Protein Shake

Vanilla-flavored protein powder is one of the easiest "base" foods to work with when you're watching your diet. I drink a protein shake right after an intense morning workout so that my body can recover and to make sure I reach my protein intake for the day. Add some frozen berries to the mix for a great-tasting smoothie and you'll give your body a healthy dose of nutrients first thing in the morning.

#2: Add Flaxseed to Yogurt or Oatmeal

If you're eating Greek yogurt, low-fat yogurt, or even a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast, make it that much healthier by sprinkling some flaxseeds on top. Flaxseeds are a healthy source of fat and give your breakfast a rich, nutty flavor. The healthy fats can curb hunger for several hours and make you feel more satisfied with your morning meal.

#3: Switch to a Different Nut Butter

If you like to add peanut butter to a protein shake or eat peanut butter on toast or English muffins, make the switch to almond butter. Almond butter has that same nutty, satisfying taste and texture, but also has fewer calories and more protein per serving. Almond butter also fares well in shakes and smoothies.

#4: Cook Up an Omelet

Make an omelet using one whole egg and three to five egg whites, fill it with veggies, and enjoy it with some salsa on the side. Eggs are a great source of protein and make for a great start to any busy day ahead. Cooked meals also make you feel more satisfied and can be a great alternative to the usual milk and cereal on a cold day.

#5: Get Your Greens

If you've never tried a greens mix before, the taste definitely takes some getting used to. Keep in mind you can always mix these with a fruit juice or even add them to a protein shake to mask the flavor. If you can tolerate the taste, drink up first thing in the morning so your body can absorb everything very quickly. Your daily dose of greens can give you a boost of energy and make you less reliant on caffeine.

More content from this contributor:

Benefits of Walking for Weight Loss

Best Sources of Non-Meat Proteins

5 Tips for Eating Healthier When You Work from Home