It’s fair to say all your meals are important. And which meals need to contain more calories and energy depends on your lifestyle and exercise routine. However, it always helps to start the day off right.

You’ve heard the saying, “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” That term wasn’t coined by a doctor. It was made by James Caleb Jackson and John Harvey Kellogg to try to help sell their new cereal product! Which is actually a very clever idea. 

Whilst you should eat good meals no matter the time of day, the Kellogg founders were onto something. Breakfast sets us up for the day. 

How planning your breakfasts properly can help

Mornings can often be really hectic. Everyone is getting ready for work and school, and it can be a battle to get out the door on time. Knowing what you’re going to have for breakfast in advance saves stress and means you’re more likely to eat something decent. It helps to avoid the classic grab-and-go breakfasts!

Plus, if you plan things properly, it means you can actually enjoy breakfast more. You can look forward to a tasty breakfast filled with delicious food that you know will set you up properly for the day. 

Planning your breakfasts can also save you a lot of money. Just think how much a coffee and a croissant costs every single day! Plan your breakfasts properly and you won’t need to spend a penny once you leave the house. 

Why breakfast is important

1. It breaks the overnight fasting period

Breakfast is the first meal you have after not eating for 8 hours (depending on how many hours you sleep each night). It replenishes your energy (glycogen, which gets low overnight)levels, so it’s important to eat something that will give you enough energy. 

2. It gets you ready for work

If you don’t plan a proper breakfast and end up just grabbing a piece of fruit or a pastry, you may struggle with your energy levels when you get to work. Eating a proper breakfast sets your intentions for the day and will help get you through a morning of work.

3. It’s a good opportunity to have a high-protein meal

There are loads of ways you can add some protein into your breakfast. Planning your morning meal properly will ensure you’ve factored in enough protein. Think eggs, fish, nuts, yogurt and meat. Plus, you can top up your breakfast with a protein shake. 

4. It impacts your mental alertness

What you have for breakfast can impact you for the first half of your day. If you opt for a high-sugar breakfast, you’ll likely experience a dip and feel tired later in the morning. 

5. People who eat breakfast are more likely to hit their daily nutritional intake

According to an American study, individuals choosing not to eat morning meals will lack essential nutrients. So, use breakfast as an opportunity to cram in lots of vitamins and minerals by enjoying nutrient-rich food. 

6. A good breakfast boosts cognitive outcomes

According to a study, a good breakfast results in ‘enhanced cognitive function.’ Some beneficial brain foods include eggs, oats, and blueberries. In this article, a group of neurologists reveal what they would eat for breakfast to boost brain health. Think fresh fruit, nuts, veggies, and fish. 

Struggling for breakfast ideas? We’ve got loads of options to explore including pancakes, protein bars, shakes, granola and protein porridge.