Many parents, doctors and fitness professionals tout breakfast as the most important meal of the day. From children to teens to adults, breakfast provides the body with the fuel it needs to get through the day. Not just any breakfast food will do though. A difference lies between sugar-coated doughnuts and a bowl of oatmeal. To reap the greatest benefits of this all-important meal, a person must first know what foods are the healthiest to consume.
Proteins
Any protein a person consumes should be low-fat to help maintain a healthy body weight. Proteins such as egg whites, peanut butter and lean meat make terrific breakfast choices. These foods provide the body with the energy it needs while keeping blood sugar levels stable, preventing mid-morning cravings for high-sugar snacks, according to MayoClinic.com. One or two choices from this group are sufficient and may include scrambled egg whites with one or two pieces of turkey bacon.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates help provide the body with a feeling of being fuller longer, as well as the energy it requires to participate in physical activity. The right carbohydrates are the key, however. A person should consume whole grain breads, cereals and muffins to receive the essential nutrients minus the refined sugar that results in lethargy shortly after eating. An ideal breakfast would consist of whole grain toast along with egg whites and a piece of fruit.
Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruits provide nutrients such as vitamin C and fiber, both of which are necessary for bodies of all ages and stages. Apples, bananas, grapefruit and oranges make a tasty accompaniment to any breakfast, rounding out the meal nicely. MayoClinic.com adds that consuming fresh fruit each day is one way for a person to receive 100 percent fruit juice, no sugar added.
Shakes and Smoothies
The basis for all shakes and smoothies is low-fat or non-fat milk, a healthy option for a person who doesn't particularly care for milk in its natural form. Most smoothies and shakes also include yogurt and some type of fresh fruit, all blended together for a quick, yet healthy and tasty breakfast on the go. Some people add protein powder for an added boost of breakfast nutrition. For these, 1 tsp. of whey protein powder is added to the mix. Depending on the lifestyle you lead, these shakes are more convenient to prepare ahead of time. This allows you to grab your shake and go in the morning, knowing all the components of a healthy breakfast is in every sip you take.
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