The EastCoaster

By: Brianna Powers

For many people on the East Coast, summer signifies lounging in swimsuits and beach
attire. Whether it’s swimming in the Atlantic Ocean off Long Island or taking a dip in the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, our summer wardrobes are often far more revealing than what we wear during the other nine months of the year. This seasonal shift often inspires a change in diet, swapping out comfort foods for healthier, lower-calorie options. However, wanting to stick to a diet doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor and quantity!
We’ve always heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there’s
nothing quite like starting the morning with a good book, our favorite TV show, and a delicious breakfast. A nutritious breakfast should include fiber and protein to keep us full longer and kickstart our day with a healthy meal. However, we don’t always have the luxury of time in the morning, so here are some quick and healthy options for those busy days:

1. Shanti Balance Bars are perfect for a quick breakfast on the run, with zero harmful additives, low sugar content, high protein, and a good source of fiber.
2. Banana or an apple for a portable and nutritious option.
3. Chobani Greek Yogurt is another great choice, packed with protein and easy to eat on the go, especially when paired with fruits for added fiber and vitamins.
   

For mornings when you have a bit more time, consider these nutritious and delicious sit-
down breakfast options:

1. Yogurt bowl with protein and berries: combine Chobani yogurt with Truvani plant-based protein powder, your choice of berries, honey, and cinnamon. This combination provides a rich source of protein, probiotics from the yogurt for gut health, antioxidants from the berries, and natural sweetness from honey, which also has antibacterial properties. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels.
2. Warm apples and oats: cook thinly sliced apples over medium heat with oats and water until the oats are tender. Add cinnamon and honey for flavor and top with vanilla Oikos yogurt. Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, oats provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, honey offers natural sweetness and antioxidants, and vanilla Oikos yogurt adds protein and probiotics for digestive health.

Research suggests that eating fruit in the morning can be beneficial. Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which help with digestion and provide a natural energy boost. Consuming solely fruit until noon can help detoxify the body and prepare it for a day of healthy eating. By incorporating these nutritious options into your breakfast routine, you can enjoy delicious meals that keep you energized and satisfied throughout the day, whether you’re on the go or have time to sit and savor your morning.

During July and August, the East Coast enjoys an abundance of seasonal fruits. Berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are at their peak, offering fresh and flavorful options. Peaches, plums, and watermelons are also in season, providing juicy and refreshing treats perfect for the summer heat.

Pairing your breakfast with coconut water and/or green tea can bring additional benefits.
Coconut water is rich in electrolytes, aiding hydration and providing essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium. Green tea, on the other hand, is packed with antioxidants that boost metabolism and support heart health. These beverages complement a healthy breakfast, helping you start your day with energy and vitality. Additionally, taking a short walk after eating can significantly enhance digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing post-meal sluggishness and promoting overall well-being.

Embracing a healthy and nutritious breakfast routine during the summer months can
significantly enhance your overall well-being and help you enjoy the season to its fullest.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick and convenient option like a Shanti Balance Bar or a piece of fruit, or sitting down to a delicious yogurt bowl with berries and protein, starting your day with the right foods can keep you energized and satisfied. The abundance of seasonal fruits on the East Coast, such as blueberries, raspberries, peaches, and watermelons, adds fresh and flavorful variety to your meals. Complementing your breakfast with hydrating coconut water and antioxidant-rich green tea, along with the habit of taking a short post-meal walk, can further boost your metabolism, support digestion, and maintain your energy levels throughout the day. By making these small but impactful changes, you can enjoy a delicious and healthful breakfast that sets a positive tone for your summer days.