Eating a healthy breakfast is a key to starting your day on the right foot. It helps your body break down glucose (blood sugar) more quickly and can also improve your concentration, memory and mood.
You can choose from a range of different foods that are nutritious and filling for your early morning meal. Fruit, whole grains, low fat dairy and protein are all good options.
Protein
Eating a breakfast that is high in protein helps you stave off hunger longer, keep blood sugar more stable and help your energy levels stay steady. Plus, including protein in your morning meal can boost your metabolism and reduce your risk of weight gain, says Cording.
While a lot of people focus on getting protein from meat or dairy products, a plant-based diet can also be loaded with quality sources of protein. Nuts, seeds, legumes and eggs are a few of the best sources for your early meal.
If you’re not a fan of eggs or don’t have time to make your own, try adding protein powders like whey or plant-based options to a smoothie. Depending on the type of protein, this can give you a healthy dose of 20-25 grams of protein per scoop.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the macronutrients that provide energy to your body. They come in a variety of forms and are found in many different foods.
But, if you’re on a diet, it’s important to remember that not all carbs are created equal. You should be aiming for healthy carbs that are high in fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes.
In fact, a study published in Diabetes Care suggests that restricting carbohydrates at breakfast can improve your overall 24-hour glycemic profile and reduce your hunger levels throughout the day.
One way to get a healthy dose of carbohydrate in the morning is to eat bran cereal with a glass of milk. It’s simple and a great source of carbohydrate, fiber, protein and calcium.
Fiber
Fiber promotes your digestive health and helps you stay full for longer. It can also stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent weight gain.
High-fiber breakfasts can be made from a variety of foods, including whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Foods that contain both soluble and insoluble fiber are best.
Soluble fiber can lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar, while insoluble fiber can help control appetite. Insoluble fiber may also increase stool bulk, which can be beneficial for those with constipation.
High-fiber cereals such as whole-grain oats, barley or brown rice are a good choice for a fiber-packed breakfast. They also add flavor and texture to a meal.
Fat
A healthy breakfast is a well-balanced meal that features a plethora of nutrients to keep you full all day long. The best way to make this happen is by choosing a wide variety of high-quality foods that are packed with protein, fiber and healthy fats in the proper proportions.
A balanced breakfast is a must for those who are attempting to lose weight or maintain their current weight. It will help boost your metabolism and control your appetite, which can improve your chances of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
The most important aspect of a well-rounded breakfast is to get the right balance between carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It’s also important to choose foods that are a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. For example, an egg is the perfect breakfast food because it contains several key nutrients, including Vitamin E. In addition, the yolk contains lutein, a water-soluble nutrient that reduces your risk of eye diseases such as macular degeneration.