If there's one thing Cyrus has taught me, it's that kids will, without doubt, keep you on your toes. It's not unlike that surprise rain shower that catches you off-guard on your morning walk. Just when you've got your sock drawer organized by color, pattern, and estimated elastic life, something new comes up. But in my case, it's not about socks, it's breakfast, and the new challenge is incorporating more fiber into our meals. High-fiber recipes, folks! What a jolly good ride it's been for the digestive system, and it's not only beneficial for the oldies but the little ones too. So, here we go... the saga of our high-fiber breakfast adventure!
The humble oat. Small. Meek. Insignificant, one might think. Oh, but how the tables have turned! Now, oats are the main character of our daily breakfast theatre. Raw, boiled, soaked... the list of cooking methods is a mile-long, and my inventive (and somewhat desperate) cooking has only expanded it! Remember the time I made my son's face out of porridge oats for breakfast and scared him half to death? No? Well, I do—and, most importantly, Cyrus does. While boiled oats are a simple morning staple, they can also be the base for experimenting with other high-fiber foods like fruits and nuts.
Berries are a no-brainer as they come packed with fiber. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, boysenberries, goji berries... Throw them in a bowl with your oats, and you have a breakfast that's, uh, 'berry' beneficial! (Cyrus doesn't approve of my puns either). Not only are berries a rich source of fiber, but they also provide antioxidants that give your immune system a little morning kick. Best part? They're also a handy way to satisfy those sweet cravings, eliminating the need for extra sugar.
Next on our list of fiber-rich breakfast compatriots: the mighty Chia seed. These little guys are like the distant cousins that come to visit and bring you unexpected gifts—gifts of fiber, omega-3s, and antioxidants. I'm not saying they're the superheroes of the breakfast table... but I'm not NOT saying that. Chia Pudding, anyone? It's easy, quick, and Cyrus-approved.
Not just for hipsters and fancy foodies anymore, quinoa has become one of our favorite breakfast staples. It boasts about twice as much fiber as most other grains, and it's a complete protein—meaning it provides all the essential amino acids our bodies can't produce on their own. Gluten-free, rich in minerals... Alright, Quinoa! We see you! Quinoa can be enlivened with all sorts of toppings, from fresh fruit to homemade jam or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Ah, avocados. Love them or hate them, you can't deny they're a fiber powerhouse. There are so many ways to incorporate avocados into our breakfast. Smashed avocado on high-fiber bread or mixed into a smoothie, you're in for a breakfast that's not just nutritious, but also hella delicious.
I have to admit; it took some convincing with Cyrus when it came to beans for breakfast. Beans can, at times, seem a little out of place next to your pancakes and coffee. Then I remembered an old friend from England who'd introduced me to the beauty of a full English breakfast, complete with baked beans. In amongst the eggs and sausages were those little nuggets of fiber, and I thought, "why not?"
Then there's the world of nuts... almonds, pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts—if they're out there, they’re probably in our pantry. I've been known to sprinkle a handful on top of just about anything, from a bowl of oatmeal to a piece of toast slathered with natural peanut butter. Or, how about a homemade granola, rich with a variety of nuts and seeds? They're excellent for flavor, texture, and if you need more convincing, they're a wonderful source of fiber and healthy fats too!
In my quest for a better breakfast rather, a breakfast with a fiber punch, I've learned some essential things. The most important of these being that there's no cookie-cutter solution. Every body's different, and while high-fiber breakfasts are healthy, it might take some tweaks here and there. Take a fiber-rich leap in your breakfast! Try mixing up the usual routine and see how your body responds! If nothing else, it's guaranteed to be a delicious adventure!
Written by Edgar Griffin
View all posts by: Edgar Griffin