No matter how many times you snoozed your alarm, making time for breakfast in the morning is the ideal way to set yourself up for a successful week. Many researchers have linked breakfast to good health, better memory and concentration, lower levels of cholesterol and a reduced risk of more severe health conditions. Not only does breakfast kick-start your metabolism and help to burn calories throughout the day, but it also gives you the energy you need to go about your everyday activities without feeling fatigued.
Side effects of skipping breakfast
Skipping your morning breakfast can throw off your body’s rhythm of fasting and eating. When you wake up, the blood sugar your body requires needs replenishing for muscle use and brain function. If your body doesn’t get fuel from food, this can lead to a decrease in energy and concentration levels. By skipping breakfast, it isn’t just your body that could suffer, your brain could too as food and brain function is so highly linked.
Good breakfast options
- Greek yoghurt
- Oatmeal or porridge
- Omelete
- Breakfast shake
- Cereal or mixed nuts
Why is breakfast the most important meal of the day?
The period between your last meal and wake up is typically the most extended stretch of time your body goes without fuel. Eating within 2 hours of waking up can greatly impact your daily life and there are plenty of reasons why.
It boosts energy levels
Breakfast provides the boost you need both in the morning and throughout the day. Studies have found that people who make time for breakfast show an increase in physical activity which ultimately reduces weight gain and fatigue.
Encourages a healthy diet
Breakfast helps you reach your daily recommended servings of fruit and vegetables. Most breakfast meals also tend to include milk and whole grains, filling your stomach and avoiding overeating and snacking.
Manages weight gain and loss
Although some people believe having three meals a day just means extra food, there are 3 main reasons why having breakfast can help you lose weight:
1. It helps you feel fuller for longer and eat less throughout the day
2. Encourages healthier snack and lunch choices
3. Helps you be more active in the mornings and burn calories
Triggers metabolism
Breakfast jump-starts your metabolism and helps burn calories throughout the day. Skipping an early meal encourages your body to conserve, rather than burn.
Reduces stress levels
Eating breakfast can have a positive effect on the primary stress hormone cortisol. As levels of cortisol peak at around 7 am, eating something in the morning can help to bring the hormone levels back down and keep the feeling of stress and anxiety at bay.
Improved heart health
People who skip breakfast tend to gain extra weight which can ultimately contribute to high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Brain stimulation
Eating breakfast can give your brain a mental edge and improve concentration levels, memory, brain health and daily mood. Stable glucose levels can help your ability to focus, reason, and process information which are all important when working or studying.
