Jan 19, 2011

To Breakfast or Not To Breakfast...Should Never Be the Question


 I was very surprised when I entered college a few years ago and realized that more people than I had ever thought do not eat breakfast. For various reasons, sleeping in late or having to catch an early class, it seemed crazy to me that so many kids skipped this important meal. The mornings when I am super busy and eat a later breakfast or a small breakfast, I find myself indulging in this massive hearty lunch that I later regret. SO, eating breakfast is important for lots of reasons:

Eating breakfast reduces your hunger later in the day, making it easier to avoid overeating.
When you skip breakfast, you may feel starved later and be tempted to reach for a quick fix,that leaves you feeling mopey and grossly full. 

HERE'S THE DEAL BREAKER PEOPLE: prolonged fasting — which occurs when you skip breakfast — can increase your body's insulin response, which in turn increases fat storage and weight gain. 
Skipping breakfast actually increases your risk of obesity.
One quick tip for eating a balanced breakfast, according to WebMD, is to "strive for five." That means try to include at least 5 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein in every breakfast.

Now here is a list of some healthy breakfast options to start your morning the right way: 

Whole grains. Options include whole-grain rolls, bagels, hot or cold whole-grain cereals, low-fat bran muffins, crackers, or melba toast.
Low-fat protein. Options include hard-boiled eggs, peanut butter, lean slices of meat and poultry, or fish, such as water-packed tuna or slices of salmon.
Low-fat dairy. Options include skim milk, low-fat yogurt and low-fat cheeses, such as cottage and natural cheeses.
Fruits and vegetables. Options include fresh fruits and vegetables or 100 percent juice beverages without added sugar.

Info via Mayo Clinic




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