We hear the phrase “breakfast is the most important meal of the day”, but is it true? In a way, the answer is yes! All of your meals are important, or at least, the meal choices and times are important! But many people think that skipping breakfast will help them lose weight. Calories saved by missing the day’s first meal means less intake which should equals weight loss benefits, right? Well, our bodies don’t work like that…our metabolism slows down and holds on to our fat stores which obviously does the opposite of help you lose weight.
Did you know that frequently missing breakfast is associated with an increased risk of being overweight as well as vitamin and mineral deficient? When you skip breakfast, you’re more likely to eat more at lunch and dinner with more snacks in between. You’re also more likely to make poor food and portion choices when you do eat. Eating a healthy breakfast helps jumpstart your metabolism and kickstart your day. Your body is able to burn calories easier when it’s properly fueled. That’s why breakfast is “the most important meal of the day”! At Weigh to Wellness in Birmingham, AL, we walk alongside you in your weight loss journey and we know that a balanced breakfast is a great place to start.
Health benefits of eating a well-balanced breakfast:
- Mood improvement
- Increased brain function
- Reduced risk of high blood pressure
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- Reduced risk of diabetes
The best way to get your metabolism going is to eat within the first two hours of the day. Eating the right food gives you energy, which can motivate you to exercise. When you’re energized by exercising and eating in the morning, you’re less likely to make lazy food choices (like opening a bag of potato chips) and more likely to spend a little extra time rinsing some vegetables or making some hummus. Putting this into practice can help jumpstart your weight loss. We’ve discussed how important a healthy breakfast is, so what does that entail? Can you still eat your toaster pastries every morning?
Healthy breakfast ideas:
- Avocado toast (or just avocado if you’re cutting out carbs)
- Plain oatmeal with honey and fruit or cinnamon
- Plain Greek yogurt with honey and fresh fruit and/or oatmeal
- Protein shake
- Protein or breakfast bar
- Egg whites
- Weigh to Wellness foods
Need help with breakfast foods? Check out our Breakfast page for healthy, tasty food options that you can get directly from us. If you need a quick, “I’m running late for work” option, we can provide several options of protein bars as well. Weigh to Wellness is here for your weight loss needs in Birmingham, AL and surrounding areas. Grab some breakfast and come by our office right off Acton Road to get started on your road to a healthier you!