Breakfast helps restore the body’s energy and alertness levels after a good night’s rest. It is important to choose healthy foods to kickstart one’s morning, as they have a massive impact on overall health. Heart-healthy breakfast items such as oatmeal, avocados, citrus fruits, and eggs can provide a nutritional boost at the start of the day and help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Try these nine heart-healthy breakfast ideas to start the day right.

Two-ingredient banana pancakes
Two-ingredient pancakes are quick, simple, and made from basic kitchen ingredients. They do not contain any added sugar, making them a delicious yet healthy breakfast option. To prepare these pancakes, combine a ripe mashed banana with eggs and cook the batter as usual. For additional nutritional value, they can be served with berries, yogurt, or ricotta cheese.

Avocado toast
There’s a good reason for this breakfast item to be trending! Make an easy breakfast by chopping some avocado and placing it on whole wheat toast. This meal idea is full of healthy fats and whole grains. To make it more nutritious, serve it with some veggies or eggs and top with feta cheese.

Steel-cut oatmeal
Make a traditional bowl of oatmeal with steel-cut oats. Serve it with honey or berries. Oatmeal contains healthy compounds and fiber, making it a great option to get the morning started.

Overnight protein oats
For those who prefer meal prepping, overnight protein oats are the ideal option. Combine milk, oats, chia seeds, salt, peanut butter, and other toppings of choice, and leave it in the fridge to set overnight.

Spinach omelet breakfast sandwich
This is another make-ahead breakfast option for people on the go. Prepare an omelet with baby spinach, onions, salt, and pepper. Once cooked, this can be eaten fresh or stored in the freezer. To serve, place the warm omelet between a muffin, bagel, or whole wheat bread.

Pomegranate smoothie
Pomegranate smoothies are a convenient way to start the day. Blend tofu with pomegranate seeds and juice. Add ice to adjust the consistency, and this high-protein, antioxidant-rich smoothie is ready to serve!

Almond, kale, and banana smoothie
An almond, kale, and banana smoothie is a nutritious and filling breakfast option. Blend orange, dates, almonds, banana, kale leaves, and coconut water or almond milk to the smoothie. Add ice to adjust consistency, and serve.

Sweet potato and spinach quinoa skillet
Make this delicious skillet to begin the morning on a nutritious note. Cook sweet potato, onion, red bell pepper, and garlic in olive oil. Add the spinach and let it wilt. Mix in uncooked quinoa with some broth, and cook until ready. Cook the eggs in another pan, add them to the skillet once done, and serve.

Veggie scrambled tofu
For those who prefer eating plant-based meals, a veggie scramble is ideal. To make it, crumble some firm tofu and set aside. Add a neutral oil to a pan and put some onions. Once they begin to sweat, add the tofu and cook. Season to taste. Serve it with whole wheat bread, and a side of mushroom and spinach for a wholesome and heart-healthy breakfast.