Breakfast - Where It's At

I think I know more people who don't eat breakfast than who do. And yet, it's the most important meal of the day. After 12 or so hours since dinner the night before, the body is hungry and ready to get some food in the system so it can get back to work giving you energy and keeping you healthy. When the body doesn't receive food, it goes into survival mode because it thinks you are in danger - why else wouldn't you be eating?

When your body goes into survival mode and activates the stress response, calorie burning capacity decreases and weight gain can result. So if you're not eating breakfast because you're trying to lose weight, think again. You're really working against yourself. 

A muffin or a piece of toast doesn't count as a breakfast. A meaningful breakfast consists of protein and fat, yes fat. Healthy fat is necessary for your body's overall health including the brain. And, fat in the diet does not equate to fat on the body. Some healthy fat options include:

• nut butters
• avocado
• olives
• fish
• nuts and seeds
• free range/organic eggs
• organic dairy
• olive oil, coconut oil, sesame oil (good for cooking)
• sunflower, flaxseed, hazelnut, pistachio, hempseed, and macadamia nut oils (good for dipping or dressings)
• organic butter or ghee

Some ideas for breakfast may include eggs cooked in coconut oil and a piece of sprouted grain toast; a serving of organic oatmeal mixed with ground flaxseed and topped with fruit and plain full-fat yogurt; a protein shake mixed with an avocado,  nut butters, chia seeds, and fruits and/or veggies. Use your imagination to come up with some delicious breakfast options that work for you.

One of my personal favorites is an egg scrambled with ground flax seed, chia, cashew milk, and spices. It fills me perfectly and lasts all morning. When I travel I'll keep avocados and hard boiled eggs with me and make a nice egg salad for breakfast. I know you'll quickly find what works for you.

When sitting down to enjoy your healthy breakfast, be sure to breathe, take your time, and be grateful for the opportunity to eat a life affirming meal.