I’m definitely not a health expert. It is said that it is wise to surround yourself with people who are more knowledgeable in different areas of life. I’m lucky enough to be friends with Caroline Power. Caroline and I met through a local Facebook page. Caroline’s daughter and my second daughter were born 2 weeks apart and our families are from similar backgrounds so naturally we connected. We both live in Sydney’s Hills District and we both love it! Caroline is also the brain and power behind ‘The Health Strategist’. Caroline is a qualified dietician and nutritionist.

I must admit that the battle of the bulge has been an ongoing struggle for me my whole life. Currently I’m at a stage of my life where I’m happy and love myself just the way that I am. Despite this, I have decided that enough is enough and I’m ready to make some changes that will make me better in all areas of my life. Especially for my two beautiful daughters Rochelle & Valentina and for my one of a kind hubby – Steve!

So, getting back to breakfast. It’s not all about the battle of the bulge, but eating breakfast is vital for the brain. Helping you perform at your best, providing you with energy to keep you going and just what you need to keep you sharp and on top of your game (whatever it may be).

Caroline has been kind enough to share some of her favourite breakfast choices with us.

Breakfast Option No1

Caroline says that smoothies are a great quick and easy way to get some nutrition into you. Whatever you mix, make sure it's the right combination of protein, carbs, fibre and healthy fats. Caroline emphasises that it’s easy and you can mix up your own combination of fruits. Maximum 150g of fruits as that's one serve for the day with some low-fat Greek yogurt, chia seeds and off you go. If you're stuck, a good quality protein powder can make all the difference. Here is a great example:

Pina Colada Smoothie (Yes Please!)

· 1.5 scoops of Vanilla Protein Powder. Caroline says that there are several brands in the market. Make sure you choose one with no artificial colours, flavours, preservatives or sweeteners (Stevia is a great option for natural sweetener). If you are looking for Vegan options, make sure you choose one that combines a legume and a cereal so you can get the full essential amino acid profile.

· 150ml Coconut Water - from the coconut is best. If not, make sure you choose one that contains 100% coconut water and is not diluted or from concentrate.

· Juice from 1 Lemon or Lime

· Frozen Pineapple Chunks, unsweetened

Add all the above to your blender and you’re ready to buzz off and start the day!

Breakfast Option No2

Overnight Oats

The basic version making one serve is combining the following in a bowl and putting it into the fridge overnight.

· 1/3 cup rolled oats

· 1/3 cup low-fat Greek yogurt or skyr yogurt

· 1 tbsp chia seeds

· 1/3 cup milk of choice (you can use plant-based as well)

· 1 tbsp maple syrup

· Pinch of salt.

Caroline says that from here you can customise your flavours and add fruits or maybe mix up some peanut butter and cacao for amazing antioxidants.

Caroline states that this is a super easy all-rounder that you can prepare on Sunday evening for the week. It has the right amount of healthy fats, fibre, protein and carbs to keep you fuller for longer, as well as give you the energy you need for the day.

2018 will be a big year for me. There is a lot that I want to achieve. Including making healthier lifestyle changes.

Next time you’re rushing out the door without your brekky, remember that breakfast is all about breaking the fast.

Why don’t you join me and try Caroline’s recipes and make a positive change to your life.

Thank you, Caroline Power, ‘The Health Strategist’ for providing me with these 2 quick breakfast ideas for my blog and for inspiring me to make a change for the better. Caroline can be contacted through her website caroline@thehealthstrategist.com.au or her facebook page http://www.facebook.com/thehealthstrategist

**Disclaimer: people2people is not a health care provider and does not provide medical or dietary advice and this blog is not to be treated as such. So please seek medical advice from a medical professional for your specific requirements.

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