Post by: Jodi Holland, RD

June 16, 2015

For many people, it’s the small and simple changes that can make the biggest difference towards eating healthy. One small change that can bring many benefits is the addition of a healthy breakfast every morning.

People who include breakfast daily tend to have a healthier diet overall. Many important vitamins and minerals are found in popular breakfast foods, and people who regularly break the fast are less likely to overeat, especially in the evening.

Breakfast is also a great opportunity for a fibre boost! Soluble fibre, found in vegetables, fruit and legumes, can help to lower blood cholesterol and control blood sugar levels. Insoluble fibre, from some vegetables and fruit, whole grains and wheat bran, help keep your bowels regular and may protect against colon cancer. A high fibre breakfast will put you well on your way to achieving a goal of 25-38 grams of fibre per day.

Eating in the morning is also a great boost for our minds. Eating within the first couple hours of waking will improve your alertness, concentration and may enhance your memory. We know that low blood sugars can lead to fatigue, irritability and restlessness. By eating breakfast, we can stabilize our blood sugars and are more prepared to take on the day!

Studies have shown that adults who skip breakfast are more likely to have a high Body Mass Index or be overweight, compared with people who eat breakfast regularly. As well, consuming breakfast is associated with a lower degree of weight gain over time.

The Registered Dietitians at Pure Nutrition Consulting can help you make breakfast a part of your everyday routine with a variety of ideas for your lifestyle. Do you like to prep your breakfast the night before? Check out this recipe for Make-Ahead Berry Breakfast Parfaits: http://www.dairygoodness.ca/getenough/recipes/Make-Ahead-Berry-Breakfast-Parfaits

Are mornings a rush, or are you not hungry first thing? Check out this recipe for Hearty Breakfast Cookies on the go! http://allrecipes.com/recipe/hearty-breakfast-cookies/