Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Baffled by Breakfast

Breakfast is one of the most critical meals of the day. According to Kathleen Zelman’s WebMD article “The Many Benefits of Breakfast,” breakfast provides bountiful bonuses including: low cholesterol, more energy for physical activities, enhanced concentration and a higher amount of vitamins and minerals. However, when eaten poorly, breakfast can have flavorful, but unfavorable calorie intakes.
According to the Boston University Nutrition and Fitness Center, three slices of bacon have 45 more calories than lean meats, regular cream cheese contains 50 calories per tablespoon (light cream cheese contains 30 calories), and the Half and Half poured into a morning cup of coffee has 15 calories per tablespoon.
However, these extra calories do not mean that one should hit the snooze button and hold off until lunch time. As the Boston University Nutrition and Fitness Center shows below, it is still possible to have a fit and flavorsome morning meal while reaping nutritional benefits.
Oatmeal and whole grain cereals – such as Cheerios, Wheaties and Total – are perfect choices for a speedy morning burst. Whole grains and starchy vegetables are critical for providing a quick fix of energy.
However, in order to maximize that A.M. fuel, a non-starchy vegetable or a piece of fruit is required. Such breakfast items include apples, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, spinach and carrots.
Finally, in order to sustain the energy from your day breaking dish, a protein should be ingested. Eggs, hummus, nuts and seeds are excellent choices.
So, skip the plump Poptarts and dumpy doughnuts and kick your day off right with a healthy start.

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