Foods That Give You Energy in the Morning

Breakfast has been called the most important meal of the day, yet it is the one meal we feel comfortable skipping. There is also a tendency to eat super-sugary cereals or fatty breakfast sandwiches, neither of which will keep you on top of your game throughout the day. These foods tend to bring your blood sugar up immediately after eating them, but you might find yourself crashing an hour or so after eating. A good breakfast is high in low-fat protein and good carbohydrates. Concentrating on these types of foods will give you energy to start the day and power through your morning.

Eggs

Eggs are a protein-packed way to start your morning, whether you eat them whole or just eat the whites. They can be cooked in a variety of ways--scrambled, in an omelet, in a frittata or poached. Stay away from frying them if you can because the oil in the pan can be unhealthy.

Cereals/Breads

Whole-grain breads and cereals fill you up with fiber and carbs that keep your energy up throughout the morning. Try an organic cereal such as Kashi, and stick with toast that is high in fiber and low in fat.

Fruit

Starting your day with fruit is always a good idea. If you drink fruit juice, make sure it is 100 percent juice and not filled with sugary sweeteners. Any type of fruit is good in the morning, though grapefruits and bananas are traditionally thought of as breakfast fruits.

Yogurt

Yogurt is another healthy protein for the morning. Make sure to get low-fat yogurt, but stay away from nonfat; it can have lots of sugar.

Other Dairy

Non- or low-fat dairy is great to have with breakfast. Any type of cheese--from cottage to cheddar--plus a glass of milk is perfect for getting in proteins as well as plenty of calcium.

References

• Healthy Breakfasts
• Zen Habits