Health Benefits of Eating Breakfast

If you’re thinking about skipping breakfast this morning, you might want to reconsider! According to a study conducted by Mayo Clinic researchers, findings suggested that eating meals in the mornings may actually help keep you slimmer and promote weight loss, as those who ate breakfast compared to those who didn’t were less likely to gain weight and accumulate belly fat. The study, which analyzed the breakfast habits of approximately 350 individuals, found that those who ate breakfast on a regular basis gained an average of 3 pounds in a year, while those who only ate breakfast occasionally gained approximately 5 pounds, and those who skipped breakfast all together gained 8 to 10 pounds. In addition, consuming breakfast each day also provides your body with essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients, restores energy, boosts brainpower, and helps reduce the risk of illness.

While it’s easy to skip out on meals if you’re busy or in a rush and don’t have enough time to prepare something, it’s widely known that if you eat breakfast in the morning then you’re less likely to feel hungry throughout the day, meaning you won’t want to snack as frequently and indulge in things that aren’t necessarily good for you.

Of course it’s not just about how frequently you eat. It’s also about what you eat. Just as you would with lunch and dinner, you need to make sure your breakfast choices are just as healthy. That means avoiding carbohydrates, sugar-filled foods and fruit juices. Some of the best foods that you can eat in the mornings include eggs, Greek yogurt, and oatmeal. You can also add things like chia seeds, flax seeds, and nuts to your breakfast meals, as these are packed with fibre and can also prevent you from unnecessary snacking in the middle of the day. If you’re unsure what to make for breakfast or are in a hurry, a smoothie can be a quick, easy and healthy alternative to a larger meal. Simply blend together some of your favourite fruits and ice (with or without a little bit of Greek yogurt.) Another great way to kick off your morning is by making a protein-based shake.

Just as healthy eating is important for adults, it’s also important to make it a habit for young children. However, kids can be picky eaters, so the best way to get them to eat healthy is to make it fun and set up a reward system. Also think beyond breakfast food. If you had ham for dinner, it also works as a great breakfast food. For example, in an omelette.