Good nutrition is especially important for people with cancer. Eating a variety of foods and well-balanced meals can help you feel better and stay stronger. A healthy diet can help you at every stage of your melanoma cancer journey. Starting with a well-balanced breakfast, which is the most important meal of the day, for kids, adults, and especially cancer patients. Breakfast literally means ‘Break the fast’ from going eight to twelve hours without eating. It is important to provide your body and brain the nutrients to refuel. A well-balanced breakfast not only kick-starts the metabolism, but will also help set you up for a successful and energized day
Research shows that eating breakfast increases energy; improves mood, memory and your overall mental capacity. Eating breakfast is also important in maintaining a healthy weight, which is imperative for healthy survivorship.
A healthy breakfast should contain at least three of the four food groups in Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating* include link, such as a bowl of whole grain cereal with milk and fresh berries, or a whole grain muffin, an apple or juice, and a glass of milk or yogurt. Another great breakfast is whole grain toast, a poached egg and an orange.
Mornings can be hectic, and especially when you are feeling low energy due to treatments and side effects. Take some time to plan breakfast the night before, and pick well-balanced meals that are quick and easy to prepare.
High in protein, fiber, Omega 3’s and antioxidants- the perfect and effortless way to start your day right. All of the recipe ingredients set you up for a healthy and energized day!
MAKES 1 SERVING
Ingredients:
2/3 cup milk or milk substitute (almond milk, coconut milk, cashew milk)
1 ripe banana, mashed
1/3 cup water
1 cup frozen or fresh fruit- (options are diced mango, mixed berries, apple, peaches, etc)
1/3 cup large rolled oats
2 heaping tbsp. chia seeds
¼ tsp Ground ginger or ground cinnamon for additional flavour
Garnish options:
Soaked almonds, hemp hearts, ground flax toasted coconut, maple syrup and/or nut butter.
Directions:
- The night before: use a medium bowl and mash the banana
until smooth. - Then stir in the chia seeds, oats cinnamon or ginger, milk and
water until combined. - Cover and refrigerate over night.
- In the morning: Scoop the oat mixture into a medium pot.
Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. - Stir frequently until heated throughout and thickened.
- Transfer to a bowl while still hot and garnish with desired
toppings. - Serve and enjoy!
- Leftover can come to room temperature and them kept in
fridge for up to 3 days.
Good Morning to you!
Recipe provided by Charlene Hally, MSc
