THE IMPORTANCE OF BREAKFAST
Ever wonder where the term “breakfast” came from? Your body needs to refuel after a long night’s sleep—a “break” from your “fast.” Skipping breakfast can lead to low blood sugar, fatigue, irritability and poor attentiveness.
Research
Studies have shown that eating a healthy breakfast can lead to better strength and endurance, sharper concentration and better problem-solving abilities. The American Dietetic Association reports that children who eat a healthy morning meal perform better in school. In addition, people who eat breakfast generally consume more vitamins, minerals and other healthy nutrients than those who do not eat in the morning.
Weight Management
Eating breakfast helps to control snacking and binge eating throughout the day. Typically, when one skips breakfast, hunger takes control, leading to unwise food choices later in the day—including excessive calorie intake. This applies to children as well studies have shown kids who skip breakfast are twice as likely to be overweight.
What is considered a healthy breakfast?
A “balanced” breakfast should include a substantial amount of fiber (which can include fruit or vegetables), low- or non-fat dairy, whole grains and some lean protein. A good breakfast might be a high-fiber fortified cereal with milk, eggs and an apple or orange. This breakfast alone provides the essential vitamins B, C and D, calcium, folic acid, protein and iron.
Time-saving Tips
Are you often running late in the morning? Think ahead so you have no excuse for missing breakfast:
- • Make a smoothie with fruit and low-fat yogurt.
- • Prepare a hard-boiled egg the night before and grab it on your way out the door, along with a piece of fruit.
- • Take your breakfast to work and prepare it there.
- • Put a whole-wheat bagel in the toaster while you gather your things.
- • When you make your lunch for work, consider making breakfast for the next day.
- • Consider having dinner for breakfast. If you have leftovers from the day before, it can be a delicious and easy way to start your day.
Health and wellness tips for your work, home and life—brought to you by the insurance professionals at Deutsch & Associates, LLC. Read More (pdf)
