Cooking on a Budget: Banana Maple Oatmeal Breakfast

We have all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Not only does it give you energy throughout the day it is also linked to weight control and improved performance. A healthy breakfast can give you a more nutritionally complete diet, improve concentration, give you more strength and endurance, and lower cholesterol levels. Eating breakfast benefits everyone but it is especially important for children and adolescents. Studies have shown that kids who eat breakfast perform better in the classroom and in their physical activities. They have shown to have better concentration, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination. That’s why I wanted to share this recipe for homemade banana maple oatmeal.

So with all that we know about the benefits of eating breakfast why do so many purposely go without? Many people think that they can lose weight by skipping a meal, but breakfast eaters tend to weigh less than those that skip breakfast. Eating breakfast reduces your hunger throughout the day and can help you to make better food choices. Other people say that they don’t feel hungry in the morning. Our bodies function as our habits allow them too. Although you may not feel hungry try to introduce small breakfast portions into your diet. Your body will start to accept this change in schedule and your breakfast appetite should grow!

But perhaps the biggest excuse is that people feel that they do not have the time. While it may not seem possible to make pancakes, or French toast, or omelets with bacon, not having the time in the morning is really a poor excuse. Adjust your sleeping schedule so that you can wake up 15 to 20 minutes earlier. Whether it’s a bowl of cereal or just eggs and toast you will feel the benefits of eating breakfast. Here is a quick recipe that is good for you and easy to make. Have a great day with a great breakfast!

Banana Maple Oatmeal Ingredients

(5 minute prep, 10 minute cook time)

1 cup oats

2 cups water

1 Tbs molasses

1 Tbs pumpkin pie spice

1/2 cup raisin

1 banana mashed

2-3 Tbs cream or milk

Maple syrup

Crushed pecans

Banana Maple Oatmeal Directions –

1) Bring water to a boil.

2) Add oats, molasses, spices, and banana.

3) Bring back to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 10-12 minutes.

4) When Oats are done place into a bowl. Add cream, pecans, and maple syrup to taste.