Non-Traditional Breakfasts That Heal

As I began to change my diet to reduce inflammation, as well as the symptoms of endometriosis and other autoimmune diseases, I found easy swaps for lunch and dinner. Breakfast, on the other hand, became a bit tricky.

I am gluten-free and dairy-free, and due to an allergy, I am egg-free too. So, the traditional eggs and toast or even a gluten free waffle were out the window. That’s when I started to rethink the first meal of the day.

Breakfast for dinner

Sure, I could have oatmeal or other grain-based cereals, but I could only eat that for so many days before I was ready to mix it up. That’s when I started to consider more of a non-traditional breakfast like leftovers from the previous night dinner. Instead of breakfast for dinner, I was having dinner for breakfast.

Starting the day right

No, I’m not talking about the pizza box still sitting on the stovetop. I’m talking salmon, sweet potato, and spinach. It seemed a bit odd at first, because those aren’t “breakfast foods.” However, after giving it a try, I actually felt better with this way of eating. It was far better balanced of macronutrients: protein, fats, and carbohydrates. When the macros are appropriately balanced, you’re more likely to have a steady, sustained energy and increased concentration and memory.

We hear that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so it makes sense to fuel it well. It’s the meal that literally “breaks the fast” from the night before. It sets our metabolism and blood sugar levels or the day both of which can affect our energy, and ability to think and be creative. Now, this flip on traditional breakfast has become my new norm. It actually makes my morning routine a lot easier too because I’m simply making a plate from last night’s dinner.

Some non-traditional breakfasts to consider:

• Salmon, sweet potato, and spinach
• Ground beef or turkey and sweet potato hash
• Shredded chicken, shaved brussel sprouts, and riced cauliflower
• Ground turkey patty with mashed cauliflower and roasted broccoli
• Salad (I was on a big "salad for breakfast kick" last summer. I added fresh berries to it and it was delicious!)

Have you tried dinner for breakfast? What’s your favorite meal? Any tips on how you transitioned from the traditional waffles and pancake breakfast?

Start slow

Maybe you start my making one meal per week, a dinner-like breakfast. Most importantly, pay attention to the results. You may not experience a dramatic difference the first day, but maybe you will. Notice your digestion (gas, constipation, diarrhea or bloating, as well as aches and pains, elimination, and energy levels.

I find a journal to be helpful anytime I’m implementing a new change. It helps to keep me on track in noting how I feel with each introduction.