MAKE MORNINGS GREAT
Breakfast. Is it important? Yes.
It energizes you for the day and jumpstarts your brain with proper nutrients.
Breakfast eaters have also been shown to be more focused and be at a healthy body weight (“Nutrition and Healthy Eating”). (1)
So, why would someone not eat breakfast?
Well, they might say:
1.) “I don’t have enough time in the morning.”
Answer – you can make time! If going to bed earlier or waking up earlier aren’t viable options, you can still prepare healthy, convenient meals that can be scarfed down between showering, getting dressed, and starting your day. Here are some low-prep ideas you can whip up, without worrying about pesky time commitments (because sometimes it’s easier to commit to the snooze button).
A.) Oatmeal: breakfast of champions. Individually prepared packets are simple and easy. Heat up a cup of water in a bowl for about 2 minutes, mix in the oatmeal and stir. Top with whatever you like: fruit, granola, gold flakes, etc.
B.) Granola bar: not all are created equal. Make sure to check the sugar content of the bars you purchase, because some are just candy bars in disguise.
C.) Trail mix: for the students who can’t stop, won’t stop. Super portable, and packed with energy. Again, watch out for varieties with excess sugar.
2.) “I don’t like to eat in the morning.”
Answer – To get in the right mindset, prepare your breakfast setting the night before. When you wake up and see your plate, bowl, glass and utensils laid out waiting for you, you may be more enticed to use them. Additionally, If your trail mix and granola bar are placed next to your keys and phone, you will be more likely to take the food with you when you leave for school or work.
At the very least, everyone should drink water in the mornings. It fuels your brain (which is 75% water, and dehydrated when you wake up) and controls your appetite by partially filling you up. (2) This tip is often overlooked, but it is the one thing you must add to your morning routine if you care about your body’s overall wellbeing. 16 ounces (approximately two glasses) of water is about how much you should drink in the morning, adjusting as needed for size and weight. You will feel the difference!
3.) “I’m still not convinced.”
Answer – Even though you may not enjoy eating (or anything for that matter) in the mornings, the benefits of doing so far outweigh the disadvantages of not doing so.
These benefits include:
1.) Increased brain function. People who eat breakfast supply their brain with necessary fuel.
2.) Augmented alertness. Breakfast eaters report feeling more awake and lively, as well as less groggy.
3.) Regulated appetite. Waiting until lunch to eat your first meal usually causes overeating and an excessive spike in blood sugar. Eating breakfast can give individuals more control over their portions because they will not be as hungry when it is time for lunch. (3)
Treat your body right with breakfast, and it will thank you.
1. “Nutrition and Healthy Eating.” Healthy Breakfast: Quick, Flexible Options. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, n.d. Web. 10 Aug. 2015.
2. Dave, Adam. “The Benefits of Drinking Water Just After Waking Up.” LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM, 11 Oct. 2013. Web.
3. “Why You Should Eat a Healthy Breakfast.” Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. N.p., n.d. Web.