Would you start a long road trip in your car with the tank on empty?
Think of eating breakfast the same way.
Eating breakfast provides energy to power into your day and help your body perform at its best.
However, if you’re someone who doesn’t wake up hungry, delaying the first meal may be better.
The term “breakfast” means breaking the fast. And at some point in our day, all of us do that, whether it’s at 7 a.m. or noon. It’s a great idea to listen to your hunger cues to know how important it is for you.
Importance Of Breakfast –
- Provides us with the energy to keep us going throughout the day.
- Provides many beneficial nutrients and boosts your fibre and calcium intake.
- Can reduce the likelihood of over-consuming high calorie foods later in the day.
- Improves your energy levels.
- Improves metabolism.
- Stabilises your blood sugar levels.
- Improves memory and concentration.
When Should You Eat Breakfast –
Eating breakfast and listening to your hunger cues is very important if you wake up hungry in the morning. However, if you’re not hungry first thing in the morning it’s best to wait until you’re hungry to have breakfast.
This doesn’t include skipping breakfast because you’re too busy or forget to honour your hunger. But if you get busy and skip breakfast one day, there is no need to feel guilty.
If you habitually skip breakfast, it is important to ensure you are optimising your nutrient intake at other meals.
Healthy Breakfast Ideas –
For the best start to the day, choose a healthy breakfast which is high in fibre, low Glycaemic Index and includes protein. For example:
- Wholegrain toast with peanut butter, or avocado & tomato, or baked beans.
- Porridge with fruit.
- Muesli, yoghurt & fruit.
- Wholegrain cereals with reduced fat milk.
- Wholemeal fruit toast with ricotta & cinnamon.
- Fruit and/or vegetable smoothie.
- Eggs & smoked salmon with wholegrain toast.
If you are finding it challenging to meet your nutritional needs, consider speaking with a qualified nutritionist (me!) who can help you navigate through any questions you may have.
