Breaking the Fast

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Importance of Breakfast


By now, everyone has heard the phrase "breakfast is the most important meal of the day," as it's been around for years! This short, clear phrase is fact-filled and has stuck around for good reason. Just as the name "breakfast" suggests, this meals main role is to break the overnight fasting. Here are four reasons why YOU should commit to breakfast. 

1) Consuming breakfast will improve energy levels throughout the day. During times of not eating, or fasting, you liver will use up the body's energy stores to maintain homeostasis. Therefore, upon waking up, you may feel sluggish, fatigued, or even lightheaded. Consuming breakfast will supply your body with necessary glucose, giving you a positive and healthy start to the day. Research shows that those who consume breakfast tend to be more active throughout the day than those who skip breakfast. 

2) Concentration and mental clarity will improve. Piggy-backing off of #1, glucose is the brains first choice for energy. Without glucose, it may be difficult for your brain to "get moving" and allow you to concentrate. As a result, mental performance, attention, and memory will likely suffer in the absence of breakfast. This is why many K-12 schools encourage breakfast consumption prior to classes beginning!

3) Weight management assistance. Consuming breakfast will avoid large fluctuations in blood sugar levels. During fasting (sleeping), blood sugar will likely decrease due to glycogen and glucose being used as energy sources without them being replaced. In those who skip breakfast, blood sugar levels may continue to drop, causing a large spike when the person consumes their first meal of the day. Large fluctuations in blood sugar is linked to an increased risk of developing insulin resistance and obesity. 

4) Replenishment of essential nutrients. As stated prior, nutrient stores are likely completely used up during your time of fasting. Therefore, replenishing these stores upon waking up is necessary in order for your body to carry out everyday activities. Fortunately, breakfast foods tend to be high in key nutrients such as vitamin D, calcium, iron, folate, and fiber. 

-ND-

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