Fast, Healthy Breakfast Ideas

Peanut Butter Waffle

Instead of dousing a whole-grain or bran toaster waffle in syrup, cut the sugar and boost the protein and fiber by spreading it with 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. You can also sprinkle on 1 tablespoon of raisins, sesame seeds, or extra peanuts for even more fiber, which helps deliver nutrients slowly and steadily.

Strawberry Shake

In a shaker or a magic bullet, combine a packet of vanilla or strawberry instant-breakfast powder (look for the no-sugar-added kind, such as Carnation) and 1 cup of low-fat strawberry milk or soy milk. (You can also mix this the night before.) If you have time, use a blender/magic bullet to add strawberries or a frozen banana, for extra fiber, and a scoop of protein powder.

Egg McMuffin

Yes, you read that right. If you must eat fast food in the morning, get an Egg McMuffin at McDonald's. At 300 calories, it's not an outrageous meal. Plus it has a good amount of lean protein from the egg and the Canadian bacon. To trim empty calories, remove the top half of the muffin. For additional fiber, add a fresh orange.