Your regular morning routine may have shifted over the past couple months if you’re working from home or finding yourself managing other priorities in the morning, such as attending to your now-homeschooled kids or your partner’s or roommate’s competing morning activities. Starting your day with enriching foods can actually help reduce stress, boost your mood and support your immune system, keeping you happier and protected during this public health pandemic.

Your mind and body can benefit from a healthy breakfast packed with the right ingredients. Check out these two easy-to-follow recipes.

Blueberry Boost Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup almond milk
  • 1 cup frozen blueberries
  • 2 tbsp raw cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ¼ medium avocado
  • 1 large frozen banana
  • ½ cup ice

Blend ingredients until smooth and pour into a bowl. Top with fresh fruit, seeds, nuts or any of your favourite toppings.

The benefits:

This smoothie bowl is a nutritious way to fill up in the morning. It’s also easy to switch up the base ingredients and toppings based on your taste buds and also try something new and exciting every day. We chose blueberries because they’re packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that help improve your body’s response to stress. Adding a slice or scoop of avocado can provide healthy fats and omega-3s giving you an additional tasty yet healthy kick!

Banana Nut Oatmeal

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup old fashioned oats
  • 1 banana, sliced
  • 2 tbsp ground flax
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 3 cups milk (substitute for non-dairy)
  • 2 tbsp nut butter
  • pinch of sea salt

Add oats, banana, ground flax, cinnamon, milk and sea salt to a pot. Stir to combine. Cook for eight to 10 minutes on medium-high heat, stirring often until all the liquid has been absorbed. Divide the oatmeal into two bowls and serve with nut butter, banana slices, a sprinkle of chia seeds or your favourite toppings.

The benefits:

Oatmeal is a great base for any breakfast. It’s a source of B vitamins and fiber. Ground (whole) flaxseed helps reduce/lower cholesterol. Using almond butter for a topping could be a great source of vitamin E.