When it comes to the most important meal of the day, I’m a much better preacher than practicer. I would never let my kids leave for school without a well-balanced breakfast with protein, fruits and healthy carbs. However, I often find myself an hour into my morning at the office and realizing all I’ve downed is a couple of cups pots of coffee.
This week has been a particularly stressful one with my husband’s out-of-town trip, my sons’ baseball and football tryouts, my daughter’s decision that she no longer likes daycare dropoffs, and my own regular craziness. I’ve rewarded myself for getting through the nutty morning routine on more than one occasion and I thought I’d report back on some new breakfast items worth considering when you need a little treat mid-morning and you’re far from home.
McDonald’s has introduced a Fruit and Maple Oatmeal in its restaurants this month. For about $2 you can order a nice, warm breakfast that sticks to your ribs without sticking to your hips (I’m looking at you sausage mcmuffin with egg!!).
I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of apples, cranberries and raisins in the oatmeal. Once it’s all stirred together, it’s a flavourful and filling snack.
Woman cannot live by oatmeal alone, and there are days when absolutely nothing makes more sense than a toasted bagel. The heart wants what the heart wants, dietitians be damned! On those days, look no further than Tim Hortons for their new specialty bagels. If you’re feeling sweet order the Maple Cinnamon French Toast, and if you’re in a savoury mood definitely order the Sundried Tomato Asiago Parm. Top it with some cream cheese and you’ve got a protein power punch.
Finally, I’d be remiss if I ignored the caffeinated beverage treats. For many of us, the only reason to look forward to Fall is the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, and it’s back as delicious and satisfying as ever. This time it’s brought it’s sweet and salty cousin, the Salted Caramel Mocha, and I’ve developed a very complicated relationship with him. Let’s just say my tongue loves him, but my butt rues the day he came along.
Please don’t tell your doctor or your nutritionist that I introduced you to these treats, and exercise extreme caution in your indulgences, but I can heartily recommend all of these options!