Whether you’re a breakfast person or skip it, getting your first meal of the day right can help improve your energy and mental focus.
People generally seek less variety at breakfast than they do at lunch and dinner, researchers found in a study published in Appetite. They say this may be due to cultural factors in the U.S. and France, as well as circadian rhythms (the body’s internal clock).
1. It’s a habit
A habit is a settled or regular tendency or practice. The word habit comes from the Latin word “habitus,” which originally meant “condition.”
It’s a learned behavior that becomes automatic through repetition. Often, habits are triggered by specific contexts.
The trigger for a habit can be something as simple as hearing your alarm clock in the morning or something more complex. For example, it could be an emotional trigger like feeling stressed or anxious, according to Robbins & Costa.
You can also develop a habit by performing a certain routine on a daily basis. This can include stretching for ten minutes or practicing meditation when you feel stressed.
However, it’s important to note that not all routines can become habits. Some routines require a lot of attention and effort to switch into a habit.
2. It’s filling
A good breakfast can help you keep your energy levels up throughout the morning and keep you from overeating later in the day. It should be high in protein, fiber and low-energy dense foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Some of the most filling breakfasts include oatmeal, eggs, omelets, smoothies, yogurt, milk and a glass of juice. They are high in protein and fiber and low in calories.
Adding fresh produce to your breakfast is another way to make it more filling and nutritious. It helps you feel fuller for fewer calories, suggests the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
You can also create a healthy parfait by layering Greek yogurt with granola, nuts and fresh fruit to create an easily customizable meal. This is also a great meal to make ahead and enjoy on the go!
3. It’s quick
Breakfast is a critical meal to fuel your body for the day. It’s also important to get the right nutrients, including fiber, vitamins and minerals.
You can get all of these from a wide variety of foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, protein and dairy. For example, a bowl of oatmeal, a smoothie, or a piece of toast with sliced bananas and peanut or almond butter are all great ways to kick off the day.
If you find yourself in the kitchen a lot, consider preparing recipes that are easy for kids to prepare on their own, such as a breakfast parfait with yogurt and granola or scrambled eggs in a skillet. You may even be able to save time by prepping the ingredients the night before, or storing them in the fridge. With the right breakfast ingredients in hand, you’ll be able to conquer your daily to-do list in no time! Best of all, you’ll be healthy and happy in the process.
4. It’s easy to prepare
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it gives your body the energy it needs to start the day. Without it, you may feel sluggish and struggle to focus at work or school.
The good news is, preparing a healthy breakfast doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. By planning ahead and preparing items that can be frozen or stored in the refrigerator, you can have a well-balanced and nutritious breakfast on hand at all times.
A few healthy options for breakfast include fruit, yogurt, low fat milk, low fat cottage cheese and oatmeal. You can add vegetables to any of these items, including shredded vegetables on top of yogurt or cottage cheese. Alternatively, try a vegetable omelet or avocado toast for a balanced meal. You can even prepare a batch of waffles or pancakes to make for a quick breakfast on the go. This will save you valuable time in the morning and ensure a healthy breakfast every day!