Thursday, January 26, 2017

Rethinking Breakfast

It has been said that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” and there is truth to back up that claim. During the night when we are asleep, our bodies still function by utilizing stored energy. Breakfast is our chance to refuel, wake up our metabolism and take in nutrients after a night of fasting. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans highlights specific nutrients many of us do not get enough of: vitamin A, D, E and C, as well as folate, calcium, magnesium, fiber and potassium. A healthy breakfast can help us boost our intake of these vital nutrients. Studies show breakfast leads to better weight control, more energy throughout the day and improved cognitive functioning. Conversely, skipping breakfast may lead to poor food choices throughout the day. 

The most common reasons for skipping breakfast are lack of time and poor appetite. There are also misconceptions about breakfast. For one, we can eat breakfast up to two hours after waking. That means we can reasonably eat our first meal after leaving the house. Another misconception surrounds breakfast food items. Breakfast can be any food you want it to be. The combinations are endless. Make the most of your breakfast with these tips.

Lack of Time: Wake up a little earlier; just ten extra minutes is enough to prepare a quick, healthy breakfast. Consider quick or portable food items if time constraints are too tight. A smoothie, granola bar, yogurt cup, bag of nuts or piece of fruit can easily be thrown into a bag or consumed in the car. Another solution is to make or pack your breakfast the night before.

Lack of Appetite: Hunger grows over time. Lack of appetite is a sign of slowed metabolism. If breakfast is skipped, the body does not expect to eat and prepares for further fasting. Start small. If nausea is an issue in the morning, try a mild snack. Even a slice of toast or a handful of nuts is better than nothing.

Choose Healthy: An adequate breakfast should be made from at least three food groups. Fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins and dairy all have their place at the breakfast table as long as they are from healthy food sources. Here are some examples, but anything can be a breakfast food if you eat it in the morning.

- Whole grain cereal with milk and fruit
- Banana peanut butter toast
- Cheese and veggie omelet
- Yogurt with fruit and nuts
- Granola bar and fruit smoothie
- Avocado toast and milk
- Chicken and vegetable sauté

Bottom Line: Fuel up with breakfast in the morning. A balanced breakfast will give you the energy you need to take on the day, so set that alarm clock ten minutes earlier and prioritize your morning meal!


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