It’s the most important meal of the day, so it certainly deserves some talk time here on the blog. Eating a good breakfast every morning helps you be more productive, focused, alert, and energized, so why would anyone want to skip it? Getting into the habit of eating a healthy breakfast is one of the best things you can do for your wellness goals. However, here are some of the worst things you can do when it comes to the first meal!
Mindless Eating
This is true for any meal, but breakfast seems to set the tone for all of your other food choices throughout the day, so it is crucial to remember this tip first thing in the morning. Eating mindlessly means you are not really focusing on your fullness level, on how the food actually tastes, or on how it makes you feel (energized, lethargic, etc.) For these reasons, try not to eat on the run, in the car on the way to work, or while responding to morning emails. Instead, strive to make time to sit down without distraction, even if only for a few minutes, while you eat breakfast. This way, you can listen to your body’s cues and stop before you overeat, and actually enjoy the meal.
Overdoing the OJ
Besides coffee, orange juice probably takes first place when it comes to breakfast beverages. And fresh squeezed varieties provide you with lots of vitamin C and natural minerals for health. But artificially flavored orange juices tend to be filled with sugar, so overdoing it can lead to lots of excess calories. Squeeze your own juice, or invest in a juicer so you can make healthy drinks without additives. And don’t forget – water is your body’s favorite source for hydration!
Passing on Protein
Adding a protein source to your breakfast meal helps fuel your muscles and metabolism, and keeps you feeling full and satiated for longer than a protein-less meal. Eggs are a great source of protein in the morning, as is low fat dairy, and ham (watch for sodium and preservatives here, and go for natural options). Also, couple that protein with a whole grain source, so you get some filling fiber for digestive health and an anti-craving boost!
Donut Crash
Donuts, sweet pastries, cinnamon rolls… Sure they are tasty, but how do they make you feel after an hour or so? Avoid that sugar crash by nixing these foods from your morning menu. Instead, satisfy your sweet tooth with vitamin and nutrient packed fruits.
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