Why do I need to eat breakfast?

Breakfast sets you up for the rest of the day and is vital to health and wellbeing. As the name implies you are breaking the (overnight) fast. Breakfast kick starts your metabolism for the day.

Research has shown that regularly missing breakfast can affect behaviour and physical and mental performance throughout the day, it also is associated with increased insulin and blood fat levels and weight gain.

People who eat breakfast regularly:

• have a better overall nutrient intake
• are less likely to be overweight
• concentrate better at work and school and may have better memory

The best time to have fibre is in the morning, studies show that this makes you less hungry in the afternoon. Fibre controls blood sugar levels, reduces insulin levels, and can reduce calorie intake for up to 18 hours. (It is important to remember; do not increase fibre intake without increasing water, you may end up seriously constipated).

Does it matter what time I have breakfast?

The timing of breakfast is very important, especially if you are trying to lose weight. You must eat within 30 minutes of waking to kick start your metabolism (unless you are exercising straight away and then you must eat within 20-30 minutes of your exercise).

What should I eat for weight loss?

Ensure your breakfast contains protein, not just carbohydrate, for example two great breakfast options are fresh fruit (eg berries) and natural full fat yoghurt with some raw nuts and seeds or eggs with fresh tomatoes, spinach and herbs to taste.