Is Breakfast Really the Most Important Meal of the Day?
By: Kristina Valbuena, MS, RDN
Are most of your mornings on the go? Do you find it difficult to choose a breakfast that is both satiating and nourishing, or find yourself skipping breakfast as a whole? Yep, we’ve all been there.
You’ve probably heard “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” While we all may not be breakfast enthusiasts, there is research that shows eating breakfast has its benefits! This includes (but is not limited to) fueling your empty tank to begin your day, helping boost your brain and mood function, and maybe even improving heart health.
Naturally, while sleeping, our bodies are in a state of fasting and consuming a morning meal will break that fast; hence the word “breakfast.” A well-balanced meal in the morning will kick start your day providing the energy needed to be productive in your work and help jumpstart your metabolism. Also, because your brain needs fuel to operate, eating food will increase your low blood sugar from your evening slumber and help increase concentration, alertness, and overall mood throughout your day. Popular breakfast items such as oatmeal, fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain bread are packed with fiber and have been shown to help improve cardiovascular health.
When finding the best breakfast for you, it is important to make sure it is balanced with all 3 macronutrients: carbohydrates, fat, and protein. Each plays an important role in jumpstarting your morning.
Small changes in your breakfast routine can both make your breakfast healthier and fuel you for the day ahead. Here are three simple ways to start your morning with a healthy breakfast:
- Build breakfast into your schedule
Simply think of breakfast as an appointment with yourself! Adding it to your calendar of events can make it much more doable. - Prepare a meal the night before
Loading a slow cooker with oatmeal or bagging up fresh fruit can make for low-maintance breakfast options in the mornings. - Avoid the fast food temptation
While drive thrus may be convienent, fast food breakfast items are typically high in sugar, calories, and fat. If you must stop, opt for a healthier option like oatmeal or yogurt.
Whether you’re on the go or a meal prepper, these ideas will ensure you don’t have to skip another breakfast and have a healthy start to your day! Check out how residents in our communities are enjoying Better Breakfast Month!