Brain Food Breakfast? Try Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats!

It’s easy to fall into the habit of eating just to eat -- and grabbing whatever you find that's quick without thinking twice. But the foods you choose don't just fill you up -- they fuel your body and optimize your brain, as well. Here's a quick example: When you eat whole grains, fruits, veggies, and high-quality proteins instead of sugary foods like candy or sweetened drinks, you feel more energized for a longer time instead of feeling mentally drained, unfocused and prone to energy crashes during the day. Eating better can help you think more clearly, feel more energetic, and ultimately get more done.

Eating a mix of fresh fruits and vegetables is a great way to start your 2211 plan. Fruits and vegetables provide your brain with important nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This helps your brain work at its best. I especially love berries. Eating strawberries can help support brain function because they contain flavonoids, natural compounds that help protect brain cells and boost memory. Studies have found that these compounds can improve thinking and enhance memory skills. Omega-3 fatty acids help your brain work better and improve mental performance. Sources of omega-3- fatty acids include fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines; walnuts and chia seeds; soybeans and tofu; and omega-3 fortified eggs and yogurt.

One fast way to boost your thinking is to enjoy this easy-to-make brain-friendly recipe -- Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats. This grab-and-go breakfast fits perfectly into your 2211 plan and gives you a balanced mix of grains, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. The strawberries provide antioxidants and flavonoids. These help support brain function and improve memory. Chia seeds contain healthy fats that can boost mental performance. The graham cracker crumbs and Greek yogurt make the meal taste like a cheesecake treat while still giving your brain the nutrients it needs. After all, nutritious food can also taste great!

This recipe is easy to make the night before a busy day. To save time, prepare it when you're making dinner! It’s the perfect choice when you're on the go in the mornings or for a nourishing snack to keep your mind sharp and your energy steady. You can add a glass of 100% orange juice to your breakfast to complete your 2211 meal. 

Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats 

Ingredients:

1. 2/3 cup Greek yogurt -- plain or vanilla

2. 1/2 cup almond milk -- plain or vanilla

3. 1 teaspoon honey 

4. 1/2 cup dry rolled oats

5. 2 teaspoons chia seeds

6. 1 graham cracker, crumbled

7. 1 cup strawberries, chopped & divided 

   
   

Directions:

1. Mix the oats, almond milk, honey, and chia seeds together at the bottom of a jar or bowl.

2. Add 1/2 of the yogurt.

3. Add 1/2 of the strawberries.

4. Add the remaining yogurt and top with the crumbled graham cracker.

5. Top with the remaining berries.

6. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

7. In the morning, enjoy cold or warm up your oats in the microwave for 30-60 seconds. Enjoy!

   
   

2211 Meal Servings

• 2 cups of produce – strawberries (+1 cup 100% orange juice)

• 2+ ounces of protein - Greek yogurt

• 1 whole grain - oats

• 1 healthy fat source - chia seeds

Eat Move Groove intern Mia Camalleri is a graduate student in the Master of Science in Nutrition and Nutrigenomics program at Manchester University in Fort Wayne, IN.