Breakfast
Breakfast is very important, as it provides the body with an adequate amount of calories to maintain energy throughout the day. The ideal time for breakfast is between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Our body’s condition is a clear indicator of the type of diet we need. Following a balanced diet based on your BMI is crucial. Some diet plans may work perfectly for one individual but prove ineffective for another, the reason lies in our unique body needs. With that in mind, here are five of the best foods everyone should consider including in their breakfast.
Apples
Besides its immense amount of nutritional value, apples are also quite refreshing indeed. This is due the fact that they contain antioxidants such as quercetin and chlorogenic acid, and these help lower inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which contribute to chronic health issues like cancer or heart disease [1]. Their consumption is also associated with better cardiovascular health, probably due to the apple-derived flavonoids reducing the risk of heart issues [2].
In tackling obesity, apples are unrivalled due to the water and fiber they contain, aiding satiety and lowering calorie consumption. Some researchers are even proposing a link between weight gain and consumption of flavonoid-rich fruits like apples [3]. Additionally, apples assist in maintaining a healthy microbiome; their pectin is a prebiotic, nourishing gut bacteria and enhancing digestion and immune response [4].
In addition to aiding gut health and controlling weight, apples have the potential to lower blood sugar levels and the risk of developing type-2 diabetes. This is attributed to their polyphenols that help insulin sensitivity which are quite helpful for blood-sugar managers [5]. Sliced in a salad, blended in a smoothie or eaten raw as a quick snack – apples remain an ideal choice for everyone.
Eggs
Having 2 to 3 boiled eggs for breakfast, depending on your body’s requirements, can be a great source of energy. Eggs are rich in high-quality protein and provide the kind of boost your body needs to start the day. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals that support muscle repair, brain function, and metabolism.
Whole Grain Bread
Whole grain bread, especially those without added sugar, is a smart choice — particularly for individuals who are at risk of diabetes or already managing the condition. Brown or whole grain bread is a good source of fiber and contains lower amounts of carbohydrates compared to refined white bread. Consuming 2 to 4 slices can help keep you full and support steady blood sugar levels throughout the morning.
Greek Yogurt with Fruits
Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics which helps us in digestion and gut health which is very important . For you are considering more dense breakfast packed with essential nutrients, Greek yogurt can be paired with fresh fruits such as berries, bananas and apples. The combination of these foods creates a breakfast that is rich in fiber, natural sweetness, and even contains antioxidants, which can strengthen your body’s defense mechanism. This combination effectively sustains satiation for longer durations.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is an excellent breakfast choice as it is nutritious, versatile, and easy to prepare. It contains high levels of soluble fiber such as oat beta-glucan which has been shown to lower cholesterol and keep blood sugar steady. Oatmeal is good for cardiovascular health as well as digestive health. It can also be customized by adding nuts, seeds, honey, or fruits to make it heartier and more delectable without compromising health.
References
[1] Boyer, J., & Liu, R. H. (2004). Apple phytochemicals and their health benefits. Nutrition Journal, 3(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-3-5
[2] Mink, P. J., et al. (2007). Flavonoid intake and cardiovascular disease mortality: a prospective study in postmenopausal women. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(3), 895–909. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/85.3.895
[3] Bertoia, M. L., et al. (2015). Changes in intake of fruits and vegetables and weight change in United States men and women followed for up to 24 years: analysis from three prospective cohort studies. BMJ, 351, h3576. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.h3576
[4] Slavin, J. (2013). Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits. Nutrients, 5(4), 1417–1435. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu5041417
[5] Muraki, I., et al. (2013). Fruit consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes: results from three prospective longitudinal cohort studies. BMJ, 347, f5001. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.f5001