If you’re like many dieters and weight loss clinic patients, you may be tempted to skip breakfast. If you don’t eat those calories now, you can afford a bigger lunch, right? Wrong. Most breakfast skippers find themselves so hungry by mid-morning that they raid the fridge, the junk food drawer or the office vending machine for high-calorie snacks long before noon. Skipping breakfast can certainly derail your diet, but here are a few other reasons to eat something healthy every morning.
People who eat breakfast weigh less –especially if they consume whole grains. Studies have shown that individuals who consume whole-grain foods at breakfast tend to have lower body weights and smaller waist circumferences.
People who eat breakfast have more energy. When you wake each day, your blood sugar is low and your body is running on empty. Breakfast gives your body the fuel it needs to get going. Consider a breakfast that combines whole grains with proteins, such as oatmeal with milk or whole-grain toast with a slice of cheese, for the longest-lasting results.
People who eat breakfast are smarter –or at least better able to concentrate. A balanced breakfast is better than a cup of coffee for sustaining brainpower throughout the morning. You’ll be able to concentrate better at the office when you’re not relying on caffeine and sugar to keep you going.
People who eat breakfast have steadier blood sugar levels. We’re back to the whole grains again. People who consume sugar and caffeine in the morning often experience a drop in blood sugar that leaves them feeling tired. If you eat a whole-grain breakfast, your blood sugar will remain steady through lunch and even into the afternoon. No more 3 p.m. nap required!
People who eat breakfast have healthier hearts. Studies have shown that breakfast eaters usually consume less cholesterol, less fat and more fiber throughout the day. This improves their heart health. Reduce your fat and cholesterol intake even more by skipping the bacon and making an omelet with egg whites or an egg substitute and loads of fresh veggies.
Breakfast doesn’t have to take a lot of time out of your busy morning either –so don’t use that as an excuse. Hard-boiled eggs can be prepared days in advance and deliver a healthy dose of protein to your morning meal. Whole-grain cereals can be pre-portioned, and instant oatmeal is available in convenient packages that are perfect for the office (just add water or skim milk). Fruits, such as bananas, berries and oranges, are easy to eat at your desk and are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants.
Don’t forget to pack a couple weight loss shakes, available at Atlanta MD Weight Loss in delicious flavors including vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and cappuccino. Portable and convenient, each shake offers 100 calories of nutrition and is a perfect supplement to your healthy breakfast regime.
