Breakfast is very often referred to as the most important meal of the day, and for good reason!
As the first meal after an overnight “fast”, breakfast should provide all of the essential fuel and nutrients that we need to really kick start our day.
The 5 key benefits of eating breakfast
1. An energy boost!
Breakfast plays a vital role in replenishing those important energy levels after a night of fasting.
Of course, the amount of energy you get can be influenced by what you choose to eat. Carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, or cereals can supply our body with the necessary fuel to power through the morning.
Breakfast also jumpstarts our metabolism, ensuring a steady release of energy throughout the day, which is vital for preventing those mid-morning slumps.
2. To help us stay focused and concentrate
Eating a nutritious breakfast or breakfast supplement has been linked to enhanced cognitive function, concentration, and memory.
A balanced meal in the morning can help stabilise blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes and promoting mental alertness.
Breakfast is really important for those whose day-to-day tasks can require a lot of focus or extra energy. Those suffering from illnesses or general fatigue will often find that a good, balanced breakfast will make them feel more alert than they might be if they bypassed the meal altogether. It also provides vital vitamins and minerals to make sure our bodies have the best chance of healing when we are feeling under the weather.
3. Vital for weight management
Contrary to popular belief, skipping breakfast is not a healthy strategy for weight loss. In fact, studies have shown that individuals who regularly eat a nutritious breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight.
A well-balanced morning meal helps to regulate appetite, reducing the likelihood of overeating later in the day. It also kickstarts your metabolism, allowing your body to efficiently burn calories throughout the entire day.
For those whose goal is to maintain or add weight, calorie rich options might be a good idea. This doesn’t mean eating high-calorie junk food for breakfast, but it might instead mean supplementing the meal with a well-balanced and nutritional addition.
Plant based iced sorbet that is enriched with key vitamins, minerals and protein with a boost of quality calories – and most importantly, it’s tasty! Plant based iced sorbet that is enriched with key vitamins, minerals and protein with a boost of quality calories – and most importantly, it’s tasty!Get the nutrition your body needs
4. Meet nutritional needs
Breakfast provides an excellent opportunity to incorporate essential nutrients into our daily diet. Including food groups in your morning meal, such as fruits and vegetables can help to ensure a diverse intake of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. This helps to meet our nutritional needs and supports overall health, including a strengthened immune system and improved digestion.
5. Support mood and wellbeing
Starting the day with a satisfying breakfast can have a positive impact on our mood and emotional well-being. Balanced meals that include complex carbohydrates can increase serotonin levels in the brain, promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation. Additionally, having a meal with loved ones in the morning can foster connection and create a positive start to the day.
Do you really need to eat breakfast?
In short, yes. Breakfast is a really important meal that provides numerous benefits for our overall health and well-being.
From providing essential energy and nutrients to supporting concentration, weight management, and emotional well-being, a nutritious breakfast sets the tone for a successful day ahead. By prioritising breakfast and making healthy choices, we can give our bodies and minds the very best chance of thriving throughout the day.
For those who find it hard to eat breakfast, there are options available to supplement this meal and consume those essential calories, vitamins and minerals in alternative ways.