Why Eat Breakfast?

Why eat breakfast? We have all heard breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. We should eat breakfast like a king, this is what everyone hears, but why do so many continue to skip this crucial meal? A number of people feel uninspired or pressed for time, and this is the reason they choose to skip breakfast. Various individuals claim they are simply not hungry first thing upon waking. If you are one of the many relating to these situations, after reading this article you will have the knowledge to make informed decisions. I will discuss the important nutrients our body needs and give examples of how to pair them for complete meals. You will then begin a new habit of fueling your body, truly your greatest gift!

It’s important to understand the nutrients our body needs at each meal. First, we need Complex Carbohydrates. They are essential to giving our body the energy it needs to function on a daily basis. It allows our brain to engage in important tasks, like problem solving and concentration. Our brain needs glucose, if you skip breakfast, you could find you are foggy, irritable and possibly have a headache by mid morning. Fruits, Vegetables, Whole Grains, and Beans are among the healthiest choices. Look for buckwheat or oatmeal pancakes, flax or whole grain waffles, oatmeal, and whole grain tortillas instead of white versions. These are all great options for breakfast. One thing I want you to understand is not all breakfast stands up to the test. Stay away from “Refined” and “Enriched” grains because they have been stripped of all essential nutrients with a few B vitamins shot back in. They are incomplete foods in every sense of the word, so be sure to stick to 100% Grains. The Whole Grains and Fiber found in Complex Carbohydrates will keep you feeling fuller longer, aid in digestion, and maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels. What’s not to love about all that? Absolutely nothing!

The second nutrient our body needs is Protein. Protein is essential for muscle building and repairing our organs and tissues. From skin to bones, it’s a powerful nutrient so be sure to add these guys to every meal. Protein should make up about 30% of your daily caloric intake. Try to have a serving of lean protein at every meal and you should have no problem with this daily value. Some great choices for Protein would include eggs, lean meats and low fat dairy, tofu, and beans. Think cottage cheese with fruit, Greek yogurt with nuts and honey, scrambled eggs with fruit and toast with nut butter, or eggs in whole grain tortilla with salsa and spinach. Even sprouted grain bread, like the popular brand Ezekiel, it’s a complete protein similar to eggs. There are endless options, and it should be fun experimenting with them all!

The third nutrient we need is essential to our body, hence the name, Essential Fatty Acids. It stabilizes blood sugar, decreases blood cholesterol, and will keep you feeling fuller longer. EFA’s are also important for proper function of our cells and organs. And it does wonders for our brain, joints, skin, hair and nails! They are not called essential for no reason! Think nut butter on whole grain toast or better yet, sprouted grain toast. You could add almonds or walnuts to oatmeal, yogurt, or your favorite healthy cereal. Ground flaxseed is perfect for smoothies or Avocadoes diced for an omelet. Do away with the old diet myth, no fats. They are super foods for our bodies and essential for good health! Simply be mindful and choose the Unsaturated Fats, think Healthy Fats!

If you want to sail through your morning routine, try to incorporate some of these tips. Include your essential nutrients and experiment! You have a world of fabulous options awaiting you. Don’t be afraid to ask friends what works for them. The more knowledge you have, the more empowered you will be to make healthy choices. Think like a kid in a toy store, they are curious and enthusiastic! Mother Nature has provided us our own toy store of fabulous life sustaining foods. Before long people will be asking you for advice on your secrets for avoiding the ever so popular vending machine mid morning! Open your mind, expand your palate and enjoy the most important meal of the day!

Love & Light,
Tanya

It’s impossible to expect your best and highest self to show up in your day, unless you greet it with respect and love through a personal morning ritual that includes a nutrient rich Breakfast. – Tanya Clark