Why is breakfast so important?
By Kristin Penner
Wild West District Director
Do you start your day with breakfast? If not, you should. Breakfast=Break the fast. This is the most important meal of the day. It gives you the energy to start your day. It is also linked to many health benefits, including weight control.
Skipping meals tends to make you eat more at your next meal. If you ate supper at 7 pm, skipped breakfast, and ate lunch at 12 pm. This would be 17 hours with no fuel for your body.
What you eat for breakfast does matter. Try to avoid sugary cereals or donuts and incorporate proteins and whole grains. Getting enough protein and fiber will help you feel full longer.
Need help choosing the right foods? Here is a list that can help make your morning breakfast routine less chaotic.
Breakfast should contain a variety of foods
- Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-or-nonfat dairy, lean protein
- Veggie omelet and piece of whole wheat toast
- Whole wheat English muffin with low-fat cheese, a scrambled egg, and a slice of tomato or lean ham
- Smoothie made with fruit and low-fat yogurt
- Salmon on ½ whole grain bagel with light cream cheese
- Whole grain cereal with fresh fruit and low-fat milk
- Oatmeal made with skim milk, raisins, and nuts
- Low-fat yogurt and a piece of fresh fruit
- Yogurt smoothie and breakfast bar
- Hard-boiled egg
- Banana
To sum it up, eating a balanced breakfast is more than just a way to satisfy hunger—it’s a crucial step in fueling your body and mind for a successful day.
