What is the best nasta for a busy morning schedule?

Question

Finding the best nasta for mornings has become my top priority because my current routine is all over the place. I’m a working mom, and my mornings are chaotic—I’m trying to get myself ready for work while also packing lunch and getting my kids ready for school. Most days, I don’t have time to cook anything proper, so I end up grabbing quick snacks like biscuits or bread. By 10 a.m., I’m already starving, and it completely throws me off for the rest of the day.

I’ve tried experimenting with a few options, but nothing seems to work. I know many people suggest poha or upma as the best nasta, and while they’re delicious, I find that they don’t keep me full for very long. I’ve also tried oats because they’re supposed to be healthy and filling, but honestly, I don’t enjoy the taste or texture, and my kids refuse to eat it. Recently, I’ve been wondering if traditional Indian options like idli, dosa, or dal chilla might be better. Do these qualify as the best nasta for someone with a packed schedule? Are there any easy hacks to make them faster to prepare?

Another thing I’ve been hearing about is the importance of balancing breakfast with protein, healthy fats, and carbs. Does that mean adding nuts or seeds to my best nasta? I’ve tried sprinkling chia seeds on yogurt, but it feels like extra work, and I’m not sure if I’m doing it right. I’ve also seen recipes for overnight oats with seeds, but they seem like a lot of effort for mornings when I’m already rushing.

I also feel bloated or tired after certain breakfasts, which makes me wonder if I’m eating the wrong foods. For example, eating paratha with pickle leaves me sluggish, but skipping breakfast makes me cranky and low on energy. Does this mean I should avoid heavy foods entirely, or can they still be part of the best nasta if I eat them in moderation?

Lastly, I’d love to hear from people with similar schedules. What’s your go-to option for the best nasta when you don’t have a lot of time? Are there any quick recipes that are both filling and easy to make? Also, are there specific foods that can help with digestion or keep me energized for longer periods? I’d really appreciate any tips or suggestions.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

For a busy working mom, the best nasta should be quick, filling, and nutritious to keep you energized throughout the morning. Here are some suggestions based on your concerns:

Idli/Dosa/Dal Chilla: These are great options! You can make idli and dosa batter in bulk and store it in the fridge for quick use. Dal chilla is also easy to prepare using moong dal and can be made in advance. To speed things up, you can try instant dosa mix or a dosa batter stored in the fridge. These options offer a good balance of carbs and protein.
Protein & Healthy Fats: To balance your breakfast with protein, healthy fats, and carbs, you can add nuts, seeds, or even peanut butter to your meals. Chia seeds in yogurt is a great option, but if you find it too much work, peanut butter on toast or almond butter can be just as nutritious. Greek yogurt with some seeds or a boiled egg can also be quick and filling.
Quick Oats Hacks: If you want to stick with oats but don’t like the taste, try overnight oats (prep them the night before) or mix oats with milk, honey, and fruits for added flavor. You can even blend oats into smoothies to make them more enjoyable for your kids.
Heavy Foods and Digestion: It's best to avoid heavy, greasy foods like paratha with pickle if they leave you sluggish. Instead, focus on foods that are easily digestible like idli, toast with avocado, or poha with added veggies. A small portion of nuts or fruit can help with digestion and keep you full longer.
Quick Recipes: Here are some quick, nutritious options:
Smoothie: Blend fruits, yogurt, oats, and seeds for a quick and filling breakfast.
Boiled Eggs: Easy to prep in advance and can be paired with toast or a salad.
Methi Thepla: You can make these in bulk and store them for easy morning access.
Avocado Toast: Simple, quick, and packed with healthy fats.
Foods for Digestion & Energy: Try adding ginger or lemon to your water in the morning to aid digestion. Foods like apples, bananas, and pomegranates are also good for sustaining energy and keeping you full.
In summary, prioritize meals that you can prepare in advance or have pre-made to reduce stress in the mornings. Adding protein and healthy fats like nuts or seeds to your meals will keep you feeling fuller and more energized for longer.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Finding the right nasta that fits into a busy morning can be such a game-changer, especially when you're juggling kids and work. The traditional options like poha, upma, idli or dosa are indeed good, but if you find they don’t keep you full, let's tweak things a bit.

Firstly, the idea about balancing protein, healthy fats and carbs is totally spot on. This balance is what gives you sustained energy without the mid-morning crash. So let's talk about ways you can make a burst of energy last. You mentioned oats, which can be meh, but maybe try them in a different way—say, add a spoon of peanut butter or a sprinkle of almonds or a drizzle of honey for flavor and staying power.

Idlis are a great option too, and you can make a big batch and store the batter in the fridge—it lasts a few days. They're light for digestion but pair them with coconut chutney or sambar for a nutritional boost. Dosa can be made with a variety of batters—think protein-rich options like moong dal or chickpea flour (we call it besan)—easy to prepare ahead of time!

Another hassle-free yet filling hack: overnight idli by using leftover idli batter from the night before mixed with veggies like peas, carrots or spinach. This way, you just spoon and steam in the morning. And dal cheelas with a quick chutney? Fantastic, for their protein content is quite satisfying!

Feeling bloated or tired afterward might mean certain foods aren't working with your dosha or agni, you know? Like parathas, as delicious as they are, can be heavier, especially if your agni (digestive fire) is low in the morning. Instead, go for lighter, easier-to-digest options. However, if you crave that hearty flavor, a small ghee upma with veggies can sometimes provide that comfort without weighing you down.

Lastly, let's mention seeds—chia seeds or sunflower seeds work wonders, but can be intimidating in the morning rush. Just prep them the night before maybe? Add to a yogurt with some fruit, it's a no-think addition.

Give these a try, see what clicks. Your mornings deserve to be less frenzied and more nurturing. Keep it simple, versatile, and listen to your body, it tells you more than you might realize! What's filling and energizing for one, might be different for another, so a bit of experimenting is your best friend here!

What is the best nasta for a busy morning schedule? - #10187

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