The Importance Of Having Breakfast

We’ve all heard from moms and commercials alike that breakfast is the most import meal of the day. So what is it about breakfast that makes it so important? I’m here to tell you about all the reasons that make up the importance of eating breakfast so that you have some cold hard facts to use against skipping that morning meal. After all, we all want to live a long and healthy life, and starting with a little breakfast may just be the start you need.

Gives You Energy

After sleeping for about eight hours at night, your body is in “fasting” mode and is still running on the nutrients and carbohydrates that may be left over from the night before. More than likely, there are not enough left over to keep you energized throughout the day without recharging. Having a healthy breakfast is crucial to help you recharge and get that energy and attention you need to last all day. Whether you’re going to work or sending the kids off to school, a healthy breakfast should be a part of your daily routine.

Helps With Weight Loss and Management

If you do not eat breakfast, you will be starting your day off with an empty stomach, which quickly turns to hunger. When you feel hungry later on in the day due to your lack of breakfast, you are more likely to indulge in a larger and unhealthier meal or snack. Hamburgers, fries, pastries and more are all common food items that get chosen when you are looking for something to hit the spot. This will all lead to weight gain and can ultimately lead to more serious health problems such as obesity and diabetes. By eating a healthy breakfast every morning, you will decrease your appetite and are likely to avoid overeating for the rest of the day. Starting the day off with a healthy breakfast sets the tone for the remainder of the day and you will be more likely to make healthier decisions come snack or lunchtime.

Helps You Focus

Aside from the distraction of a growling stomach, skipping breakfast will diminish your focus and attention throughout the day. This is entirely important for work and school. Kids, in particular, are affected the most by a lack of breakfast. Studies have shown that kids who eat a healthy breakfast in the morning tend to perform better on math, matching, memory and creativity tests. Plus, it has also shown that those who eat breakfast have less behavioral problems at school. While being a parent is hectic enough, you still need to make sure your kids are getting something healthy in their stomach before school. If you are one who rushes out the door, grab a healthy snack to take on the go or for your kids to eat in between classes.

What to Eat?

Believe it or not, having a healthy breakfast will be your first step to a healthy and fulfilling life. Start your morning off with something that has healthy fats, fiber, protein, or vitamins. Grabbing a bagel or doughnut is not the way to start off the day since they are simply filled with empty calories. Oatmeal, yogurt, fruit, and whole grain cereal are all great options for a morning meal.

Smoothies are one of my personal favorites to start off the day. When I was at the beginning of my boxing career, my nutrition coach would have me drink green protein shakes every day. Now, I have instilled that value into my everyday life (even outside of boxing) and drink healthy smoothies all the time. Now that I have gained experience and more refined taste buds, I opt out of the protein powder shake and create my own smoothies that are much tastier and fulfilling. For instance, if you’re a coffee drinker, then my Coffee Lover’s Smoothie recipe from my cookbook Food For Life is a great way to start off your morning. It is packed with nutrition and a hint of cold-brew coffee to give you the energy and nutrition you need and desire, especially hardworking moms. It also uses my YouPlenish Paleo Protein Powder, which you can order at Shop.LailaAli.com!