Why breakfast really is the most important meal of the day…

Breakfast- the most important meal of the day. But why is it so important to make sure that you eat up in the AM?

Break the Fast. It’s in the name. After hours of sleep (we hope), your body needs a proper meal to help it perform at it’s best. This is the first meal of the day that will effect your consumption for the rest of it. Starting the day with a well-balanced breakfast will not only kick start your metabolism, meaning burning more calories, but it can also influence your food choices for the rest of the day, encouraging healthier eating.

Weight Controller. Eating calories towards the beginning of the day is much better than towards the end. Eating a big breakfast and smaller dinner is much better than the other way round- or than no breakfast at all! Our bodies use the energy from food to function, meaning that we’re burning off breakfast just by doing daily activities. A smaller dinner means less calories sitting in your belly whilst you sleep!

Energise. Breakfast = energy. Simple.

Brain Power.  Not only does your physical performance benefit from eating breakfast, so does your brain! We’re able to function and concentrate much more after a good old morning meal. You may just find that breakfast can give you the power to smash through that meeting, exam or interview- a good day all round!

Next time you’re planning on skipping brekkie, think again. This is a meal that can benefit you in more than one way and may just turn your day from good to fabulous. Want to have a productive day? Pass the menu, please! xx

IMG_5784

Winter Warmer: Flavoured Porridge

I really do believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It literally breaks your fast after a night’s sleep, kick starting the metabolism and providing your body with energy for the day ahead. But with busy schedules and the morning rush it’s sometimes hard to give your body the healthy energy that it deserves. Why not give this a try…

Flavoured porridge! Sounds like it might take a little bit of preparation, but it really isn’t that difficult. All you need is porridge oats- I recommend wholegrain- and frozen fruit of your choice. Mix your oats and milk as you usually would when making porridge and then add a handful of frozen fruit. Heat and ta daaa, a colourful bowl of flavoured porridge.

My favourite fruit to add is berries such as raspberries, blueberries and cranberries, but you can experiment with any fruit for a different flavour each morning. A healthy, yummy and filling breakfast that will provide your belly with the warmth and energy that it needs this winter. xx

img_0013

Start Your Day The Healthy Way

Everybody knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It literally ‘breaks the fast’ after your night’s sleep, waking up your metabolism and helping to burn fat quicker! It gives you a better chance of losing weight and makes you more alert. But what are the best foods to really make the most of this magical morning meal?

Eggs 

Research shows that eating two eggs in a morning (I recommend scrambled or boiled) can be great for weight-loss. Eggs contain a high amount of protein so will keep you fuller for longer. They also contain a nutrient called choline, which can improve both your nervous system and cardiovascular health.

Peanut Butter and Toast

One of the easiest to make healthy breakfasts. Peanuts in the morning can increase levels of the hormone that tells you that you’re full. So basically, you will recognise that your full that little bit earlier, reducing the amount of food that you want to consume. Yipppee!

Banana

Bananas keep you feeling fuller for longer so are perfect for breakfast. They are a great source of potassium, which helps to naturally lower blood sugar levels. Try on wholemeal toast (delicious), sliced onto porridge or simply eat as a mid-morning snack.

Oatmeal

If you want to feel less hungry throughout the day, swap your cereal for oatmeal porridge. Top with fruit, seeds, nuts or a sprinkle of chia for added taste (and better Instagram pictures)! If you’re not feeling porridge or have a little bit of a sweet tooth then oatmeal muffins could be a good choice!

Fruit and Cheese

In a rush? Grab an apple, a small amount of cheese (1-2 ounces) and a handful of walnuts and you’re good to go! A good one to eat on the move.

Smoothies

My personal fave. Smoothies are surprisingly filling and super good for you. Experiment with your favourite fruit and Greek, natural or low-fat yoghurt. If you’re fed up of fruit, there are plenty of non-fruit green smoothie recipes out there, which are AMAZING for your health! Kale, spinach and broccoli are particularly good! Even if you’re not a huge veg fan, this could be a surprisingly great way to get you that green intake. Give it a go!

Grapefruit

Hydrating, filling and full of immunity-boosting anti-oxidants, grapefruit is a great breakfast choice. Accompany with protein (think yoghurt or eggs) for the most beneficial breakfast!

Breakfast’s an excuse to eat that will actually benefit your health, so start your day the right way and get tucked in! Happy eating! x

Source: trileafdesigns.com