by Martin Hussey

College students tend to make some unhealthy decisions. At this stage in our life we can absorb most of these poor dietary choices. Had too much to drink last night? Your metabolism can handle it so quickly that you only feel the effects for a few hours. Chicken Finger Thursday? No big deal for these 18-23 year-old digestive systems. Missed Yates for a couple of weeks? Odds are you haven’t put on any noticeable weight. As young people, we can usually get away with unhealthy choices. But, sooner or later, our poor health decisions will catch up to us.

But the unhealthy effects of a poor breakfast — or the lack of a breakfast — can negatively impact your health (and your day). And with the wonderful selection of sugary cereals, greasy meats and starchy bagels at Leo’s it can be difficult to make yourself a healthy and nutritious breakfast. Luckily, we’ve got you covered for the ideal balanced breakfast to get you started on your day, while still fitting into your meal plan.

Step 1: Yogurt parfait Grab some yogurt — no more than a couple of spoonfulls (Leo’s yogurt is more fattening than the more trendy Chobani variety). Head over to the cereal station and add in some Raisin Bran, Special K with Red Berries, Heart-to-Heart, or Chex (Avoid the sweeter cereals, and instead sweeten with honey.) Top off with slices of melon or banana.

Step 2: Breakfast sandwich Get an egg white at the omelet station. Grab one slice of wheat bread and toast it. Sparingly add hot sauce to the top.

Step 3: Fruit Grab a grapefruit half – resist the urge to add sugar!

Step 4: Wake-up beverage As a caffeine-free guy, I don’t necessarily understand the urge to wake up with a piping hot cup of coffee. But for those of you who need the jolt of piping hot caffeine, avoid adding too much sugar or creamer. If anything, keep the coffee additive to a bit of skim milk. If you really can’t stand the taste of coffee, switch to tea.

See if you can switch up your Leo’s routine and start your day off just a bit healthier than usual.