Let's start with some breakfast

I know you've heart it a million times, "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day." This is so true for anyone, and becomes even more important for those trying to lose weight. It starts your metabolism and in a lot of ways, your motivation for the rest of the day. If you start your day with something nutritious, your body is going to crave that same goodness for the rest of the day. It also stimulates your minds and gets you ready for school, work, exercise, and whatever else you might have to get through that day. Once I changed my breakfast eating habits, I was even more ready for change. My absolutely favorite breakfast is a basic protein/green smoothie. This is my breakfast almost every day. It is quick, easy, and loaded with everything I need to get my day started! I have two variations, but the first has pumpkin, so with this autumn season, we'll start with that. So... the base of a smoothie is more important that one would think. I like using either nonfat plain greek yogurt or cottage cheese. They are both full of protein, good carbs to give you energy, and act as a probiotic, as well. Then select a liquid to get your smoothie going! I like unsweetened original almond milk (I usually just buy the cheapest brand). However, you can use water, skim milk, soy milk, or coconut milk! Next comes the green stuff! I like to switch every week from using pure spinach to a mix of baby greens, anything will really work. I've heard of people using kale, which is definitely a VERY nutritious option. Pumpkin is my secret ingredient. Pure pumpkin puree is filled potassium, vitamins C and E, and magnesium. They also have a ton of fiber (good for losing weight), with a low calorie count. Next, add a dash of superfoods, chia seeds, and hemp seeds. Finish off with some appetite curbing cinnamon and if you're feeling really hungry that day, some oatmeal and low calorie protein powder for the win. Don't forget the bananas as well for sweetness and extra super vitamins! I like to switch up the ingredients of my morning smoothie quite often. It is easier for your body to lose weight when you are constantly making your body digest different foods.

Green/protein Smoothie (with pumpkin)

-1/4 Cup non fat cottage cheese or plain greek 

yogurt 

-1/4 Cup pure pumpkin puree (optional) 

-Handful of spinach (or mixed greens) 

-Handful of old fashioned oats 

-Hemp Seeds 

-Chia Seeds 

-Almond milk, soy milk, or nonfat milk (enough to 

get the consistency you like) 

-Spoonful of any vanilla protein powder (I like 

Trader Joes brand) 

-Cinnamon 

-Banana 

-Any other fruits that you may like in it