Is Eating Breakfast Really That Important?
We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Is there actually any truth to this?
The Importance of Breakfast
Have you ever experienced that intense hunger that hits mid-morning when you realize you didn't eat breakfast? Or maybe you did eat breakfast, but it just wasn't satisfying and filling.
For a balanced breakfast that is nutrient-rich, satisfying, and energizing, pair whole grains with protein and healthy fat.
Breakfast is crucial for starting your day off right and providing enough energy to tackle your busy day. Imagine trying to drive your car with very little gas in it—you wouldn’t get very far, right?
According to the University of New Hampshire, eating breakfast not only gives you fuel for the day but it can also increase concentration and memory, and contribute to healthy weight maintenance.
The entire body benefits when you eat breakfast. According to Fairfield Medical Center, eating a healthy breakfast benefits your heart, digestive, and skeletal systems, metabolism, blood sugar levels, and much more.
Tips for a Healthy Breakfast
Do you struggle to find time for a healthy breakfast in the morning? A great option is to prepare your breakfast ahead of time or prep ingredients as much as possible the night before.
Here are some balanced and filling breakfasts that can be easily prepared the day before:
Greek yogurt parfait topped with granola, fruit, and a bit of honey
Quiche made in muffin tins (great for on-the-go breakfasts)
Overnight oats
Protein energy balls made with oats, nut butter, honey, dried fruit, chocolate chips, and nuts
Breakfast burritos made with scrambled eggs, bell peppers, onions, and low-fat cheese wrapped in a whole grain or spinach tortilla
When you are creative with the different flavors, textures, and preparation methods of your foods, your breakfast options are endless. Remember, you don't have to limit yourself to just breakfast foods for breakfast.
While it is best to make time to sit down and enjoy a balanced breakfast, a quick breakfast on the go is preferred over skipping it altogether. Keep a box of granola bars in your car, backpack, or office so that if you don’t have anything prepared or forget to grab your breakfast on the way out the door, you have something substantial to eat. Other foods to keep on hand during the day include nuts, seeds, dried fruit, whole-grain dry cereal, and other non-perishable fiber-containing foods.
So, don’t forget to eat a healthy breakfast you enjoy that is filled with whole grains, protein, and healthy fats to support an energized and focused day.