Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day – that’s been a long established fact. In fact, skipping breakfast is one of the worst things that you can do to your body. According to several studies, breakfast eaters are more likely to embrace a positive attitude about health and body image, more likely to be physically active, and less likely to be depressed. Non-breakfast eaters, on the other hand, have been found to be at risk for obesity.
If you are trying to become fitter, breakfast becomes more important. Unfortunately, knowing what to have for breakfast, how much and at what times can be quite confusing. The key thing to remember about all of these is that you need to be guided by your fitness goals as well as a few important factors.
If you're trying to lose weight
While it may sound counterintuitive, if you are trying to lose weight, you need to eat a big breakfast, around 500 to 700 calories. This allows you to better overcome cravings and provide your body with the energy you need for your afternoon workouts.
Instead of feasting on diet breakfast, strive to eat larger portions during the daytime and taper your intake come night time.
If you prefer exercising in the morning
Avoid eating a large breakfast if you prefer working out after waking up. This will only leave you uncomfortable and feeling heavy. Instead of a big breakfast, eat a piece of toast or a banana. This will give you enough carbs that will be used as fuel for your body while working out.
Now, after working out, you will need to replace your glycogen stores which have been depleted. Ideally, you should eat a meal two hours after your workout. If you are pressed for time, consume juice or low-fat milk or you can even prepare a smoothie with milk and fruits. Come mid-morning, you can feast on a banana, granola, a bagel with peanut butter or even instant oatmeal.
If you prefer to work out later in the day
If you prefer working out during the afternoon or evening, you should start your day right with a big breakfast. A few hours prior to your workout, you can enjoy an energy bar which will help you work harder in the gym.
What should you have for breakfast?
It can be easy to skip breakfast, especially if you are pressed for time. One good way to eliminate this problem is to stick with simple fare like cereal, low fat milk, orange juice or a banana. These can provide you with the nutrients your body needs for your active lifestyle. Other healthy choices include bagels, bran muffins, pita and granola.
Eat well, be well. For more health & fitness tips, get help from the top fitness experts in Australia today.