Most of us have heard the old saying, "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Many studies have linked healthy breakfasts with less chronic disease, increased longevity and better health. They also suggest that starting your day with a good breakfast boosts your energy, increases your attention span, and heightens your sense of well-being. In fact, other studies suggest that breakfast may help control Americans' increasing problem with overweight and obesity.
What’s your excuse for not eating breakfast?
“I’m not hungry early in the morning.” It’s important that you understand when you skip this morning meal, and eat a hearty lunch (which typically consists of more fat and less nutrition), the majority of the calories taken in are stored as fat since your metabolism can’t handle the sudden influx of calories. Your lack of early morning hunger could be a result of late night eating and/or snacking. So, a good way to get started is not to eat anything after an early dinner. Try to finish dinner by 6:30 p.m.
What’s your excuse for not eating breakfast?
“I’m not hungry early in the morning.” It’s important that you understand when you skip this morning meal, and eat a hearty lunch (which typically consists of more fat and less nutrition), the majority of the calories taken in are stored as fat since your metabolism can’t handle the sudden influx of calories. Your lack of early morning hunger could be a result of late night eating and/or snacking. So, a good way to get started is not to eat anything after an early dinner. Try to finish dinner by 6:30 p.m.
“I don’t have time.” Find a healthy portable breakfast option that you can easily eat on way to work or pack up and eat once you get to work or school. For instance, scoop up a cup of your favorite high fiber cereal and place in a Ziploc sandwich bag, pour a half cup of low-fat milk in a to-go-container, and a grab a piece of fruit fresh – something quick and simple you can eat at work or school. Don’t forget to pack a plastic bowl and spoon. By all means, let your last option be the local fast food drive-thru! The sausage, egg and biscuit sandwich, breakfast taco, or bagel with cream cheese and coffee may be cheap, filling, and convenient, but it’s not the healthy option you’re looking for… If you find yourself having to grab something at an eatery, choose a slice of wheat toast or English muffin, container of yogurt, and fresh fruit.
“I don’t like breakfast foods.” Who says you have to eat eggs or cereal for breakfast. You can eat non-traditional breakfast foods and still eat healthy. You can eat leftovers, or a sandwich. For example, peanut butter (Smucker’s because it has no trans fat) on a slice of wheat bread, fat-free milk, and a piece of fruit will do the trick.
“I'm trying to lose weight.” Skipping meals is not the way to lose weight. More than likely you’ll end up gaining weight. Skipping meals like breakfast often leads to over-eating and sabotages your metabolism. So, eat breakfast!
It’s no secret that many of the leading causes of death and chronic diseases are preventable. That’s why we’re inundated with messages talking about the lifestyle factors that will help us improve our health. Adding breakfast to your eating pattern is a major step to improving your lifestyle. If you want to make the most of your day tomorrow, fuel your body early with a healthy breakfast.
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