At Lea Mattress we love National Pancake Day!
Pancake Day is one of the only days of the year when we really get excited about breakfast. We believe that the key to achieving a healthier lifestyle, is dropping the rushed morning routines and focusing on dedicating more time to improving the quality of food that we eat first thing in the morning.
We understand that modern life can get in the way of what is truly important for our health and wellbeing. For this reason, we have highlighted the many health benefits that come from eating a nutritious and well balanced morning meal.
There has been a life-long debate on whether breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so it is time to understand what are the true benefits of eating breakfast!
Experts recommend 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night for a healthy adult to function well during the day, we can consider these hours as hours of fast - hence the term ‘break’, ‘fast’. If we don’t break this fast with a good breakfast, then we will be working our bodies on an empty stomach.
With this important factor in mind, let's explore the consequent benefits:
Breakfast skippers are more likely to experience hunger earlier in the day, as a result of this they become regular snackers. Snacking can impact the chances of weight gain as it only satisfies your appetite for a short while and most snacks have a high sugar and fatty base.
By eating a nutritious protein, you have more control of your hunger and can avoid snacking during the day!
For the brain to function we need a good level of glucose and amino acids in the body for our brain to work well. In order to obtain this energy fuel we need to consume the right kind of carbs such as whole grain cereals, yoghurt or nuts.
If you have a busy day ahead, consuming the right type of breakfast can be helpful in increasing your concentration whilst simultaneously reducing levels of stress!
Our bodies can still feel tired even after a good night of sleep, so we should provide an efficient amount of energy to start the day in the right way. Breakfast is the perfect way to gain a natural energy booster.
Wholegrain cereals and breads are full in fibre whilst fresh fruit can provide a high energy start to the day! Try to consume these foods daily.
In terms of mental health, dedicating those extra minutes in the morning where you can wake up in a relaxed state are extremely beneficial for your mental wellbeing. Waking up in a rush can be a shock to your system so try to take things slower.
Breakfast in bed is always a good idea! Or why not invite all the family around to make breakfast a special occasion and a reason to spend more time with your loved ones.
If you are contemplating what to have for breakfast, we suggest trying these healthier alternatives:
• Oatmeal - contain a good source of fibre and are high in antioxidants
• Egg Whites - low calorie and rich in protein
• Fruit Smoothies - high energy source and immunity enhancing
• Whole Grain Toast - provide vitamins and fibre
What are your favourite breakfast options?
