Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day for good reason! After a long overnight fast, your body is primed and ready for its first dose of nutrition. But here’s the thing – if you don’t choose carefully, what you eat in the morning can either set you up for a good day with focus or be filled with a sugar crash. While most of us have now realized how harmful it is to our health, starting your day with the wrong foods is equally bad. So here are some of the worst offenders; If your breakfast diet includes any of these, it’s time to upgrade.
Croissant with jam
A buttery croissant mixed with sweet jam or berry compote sounds like the perfect way to start your day, but it must be said that this combo is all style and absolutely no substance. Loaded with refined carbs and added sugars, this combo provides little or no protein or fiber and without these essentials, you’ll likely find yourself hungry and reaching for a snack before lunch. Protein, in particular, is key to energizing your metabolism and keeping cravings at bay; A croissant just doesn’t cut it.
just coffee
Everyone has busy days and it’s totally acceptable to skip breakfast from time to time. But if you have a habit of drinking simple black coffee in the morning till lunch, it is causing more harm to your body than you think. While black coffee is low in calories and provides you with the energy you need, it does not provide any essential nutrients. Additionally, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can irritate the lining of your stomach, potentially causing acid reflux or discomfort. Even a Latte or Cappuccino can’t cut it as a meal replacement, only contributing to mid-morning hunger or an uncontrollable craving for sugary snacks.
sweet cereal
Ah, the cereal aisle – the rainbow of colorful boxes promising a “healthy start” to your day. Don’t fall prey to publicity. Many cereals are nothing more than sweets disguised as snacks, loaded with sugar, refined starches, and artificial colors. They send your blood sugar on a rollercoaster ride and provide little in the way of long-lasting energy.
Fruit Juices and Smoothies
You may think that a glass of orange juice or a packaged fruit smoothie is a good way to start your day, but the truth is: These drinks are sugar bombs. Devoid of fiber, they cause a rapid rise in blood sugar, leaving you hungrier (and more irritable) as the day goes on. If you love morning smoothies, try making it at home with whole fruits, vegetables, and a spoonful of protein powder to balance things out.
processed meats
Bacon and sausage may be breakfast staples, but they aren’t the healthiest. High in saturated fat and full of preservatives, these processed meats can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems if consumed on a daily basis, especially in the morning. Save these indulgences for the occasional brunch and opt for lean proteins instead; Think eggs, tofu, or smoked salmon.
Breakfast is your chance to set the tone for the day, so don’t waste it on foods that make you sluggish or hungry. Make wise choices this New Year so you don’t end up with any nutritional deficiencies!
