What's the Deal with Breakfast?

Is breakfast really the most important meal of the day, especially when so many of us are okay skipping it? Like a lot of us, I can easily go until 2 pm without eating, but skipping breakfast is likely affecting our day-to-day performance, mood, energy, focus, and ability to manage life’s stressors. Intermittent fasting has been all the rage, but I’m going to stand firm on my recommendation to eat a complete, balanced breakfast within about an hour or two of waking. In our American lifestyles, it’s common practice to be skipping meals, ignoring hunger, working through lunch, and grabbing something quick and convenient — and then we wonder why we’re feeling lightheaded through our workouts, crashing mid-day, feeling irritable and sore all the time… and then the cravings hit.

Eating a balanced breakfast with some protein, fiber-rich carbohydrates, and some fat gives our brains and bodies the fuel it needs to function for hours. Our brains love a steady stream of energy (glucose), while fiber, protein, and fat help to slow down digestion and absorption from carbohydrates, helping to regulate our blood sugar by preventing large spikes and dips. A fun fact: eating breakfast is actually associated with a lower risk for Type 2 Diabetes! You’re also more likely to stay full for longer and be able to make a more intentional decision at your next meal.

Eating more earlier in the day, it can help reduce cravings for high-fat and high-sugar foods later in the day. If you’re not used to it, you may not feel hungry in the mornings, and that is normal. Caffeine also has a tendency to curb appetite, so drink your caffeine WITH your meals. Start with something small to stay consistent and see how your performance, mood, and appetite regulation improve!

-Coach Kayla and the Peak Fitness Team

Interested in learning more? Schedule a Free Initial Consult with Coach Kayla OR Join a Free Strength and Conditioning Class and stay for a chat after.