Maria, Siquijor - Breakfast is the first meal of the day typically eaten in the morning.   But just how important breakfast is? We have likely heard over and over about reasons why we need to eat breakfast.

Did you know that the body’s source of energy is glucose? The carbohydrates you eat are broken down into glucose which is the main source of energy for your body’s cells, tissues, and organs. Glucose is stored in the liver. During nighttime even while we are sleeping and in fasting mode, our body continues to work, and the liver releases the stored energy needed for the growth and repair of the body throughout the night. This brings the glucose level down.

Researchers recommend breaking the fast the whole night by fueling up your stomach with nutritious foods. Just like the vehicle it needs fuel to start, and our body needs energy also to keep us going and be productive the whole the day. Without energy, our muscles and brain can’t work properly.  

Learn about the long-standing reasons to enjoy the morning meal.

Boost brain power. One study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion suggests that eating breakfast helps the cognitive function of students. It supports children do better in school by improving memory, alertness, concentration, and mood. 

It promotes a healthier heart. Research has shown that individuals who eat breakfast not only have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease and have lower total cholesterol levels compared to those who skip breakfast.

It helps control weight. Eating a healthy balanced breakfast can maintain healthy satiety, may decrease overeating and can help you plan and portion out your meals for the rest of the day. 

It positively affects your mood. A study showed that adults who regularly or always eat breakfast have lower depressive symptoms than adults who regularly skip breakfast.

So, start your day by investing time in planning a nutritious breakfast menu for your family. Also, by eating breakfast together helps instill more healthful eating habits for your growing kids. // ND II Karen F. Abe, RND