How? By incorporating the practice of make-ahead breakfasts. They’re one of the smartest ideas around. Here’s why:

TIME SAVING. Preparing breakfasts in advance frees up precious time during busy mornings, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable start to the day. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with hectic schedules or long commutes.

CONVENIENCE. Having ready-made breakfasts eliminates the stress of last-minute meal decisions and cooking, making it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan, even with a demanding lifestyle.

HEALTH AND NUTRITION. Meal prepping gives you full control over the ingredients and nutritional content of your meals. This allows for incorporating high-quality, whole foods that meet dietary needs and avoiding unhealthy additives, excessive sugars, and preservatives.

PORTION CONTROL. Pre-portioning meals helps in managing calorie intake and avoiding overeating, which is particularly useful for weight management goals.

COST-EFFICIENCY. Buying ingredients in bulk for meal prepping and minimizing food waste can significantly reduce grocery bills compared to eating out or purchasing pre-packaged foods.

CONSISTENCY. Having nutritious options readily available encourages consistent healthy eating habits, reducing the likelihood of resorting to unhealthy alternatives on busy days.

ENHANED FOCUS AND PRODUCTIVITY. Starting the day with a well-balanced, nutritious breakfast can improve focus and productivity throughout the day by fueling the brain and body with essential nutrients.

VARIETY AND CREATIVITY. Far from being monotonous, make-ahead breakfasts can encourage experimentation with diverse recipes, ingredients, and flavors, preventing boredom and promoting a balanced diet.

Sold? Me too, and I’m going to try these five tips (below) and start with this delicious recipe (also below) by Chef Del Sroufe (author of the cookbook, The China Study Family Cookbook). You’ve got my email, so feel free to send your own tips or a favorite recipe. This is one idea that’s bound to make the rest of the summer tastier, easier, and more productive!

START SMALL. Begin with simple breakfast recipes that require minimal prep time, such as overnight oats or baked oatmeal.

USE YOUR FREEZER. Many make-ahead breakfast recipes, including breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and egg muffins, freeze well, allowing for batch cooking and stocking up for future meals.

INVEST IN QUALITY CONTAINERS. Airtight containers with fitted lids are crucial for keeping prepped meals fresh and organized, according to Health eCooks.

MIX THINGS UP. Alternate between different recipes to avoid boredom and maintain interest in your make-ahead breakfast routine.