Is Your Breakfast Hurting Your Heart?

There’s an old adage that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.”  Now we have research to show skipping breakfast is risky business. 

• DON’T Eat Simple Carbs: A study conducted by Michael Shechter, M.D. at Tel Aviv University’s Sackler School of Medicine showed that eating high-glycemic foods at breakfast—such as white bread and cornflakes—puts stress on the arteries. In fact, sugar consumption can cause a sudden, temporary dysfunction of the arterial walls. Plus, it leads to inflammation and heart disease. 

• DON’T Frequent the Drive-Thru: No only do fast food  breakfasts contain a jackpot of sugar, many are high in damaging hydrogenated oils, white flour, high fructose corn syrup, and calories!  

• DON’T Eat Processed Meats: Breakfast meats like bacon and sausage are loaded with salt, sodium nitrate and other chemicals, and unhealthy fats. 

• DO Reach for High-Fiber Cereals: Steel cut oatmeal, oat bran, shredded wheat, and bran flakes are all good choices—keeping you feeling full longer and your blood sugar steady. You can top them with flaxseeds, which are rich in fiber and have a delicious, nutty taste.

• DO Include Healthy Proteins in Your Breakfast: Farm-fresh organic eggs, avocado, and whey protein are all good choices. 

• DO Eat Plenty of Fresh Fruits and Their Juices: Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, bananas, peaches, and kiwi are excellent options. Also, choose organic whenever possible. 

• DO Enjoy Real Maple Syrup in small amounts.

• DO Use Coconut Spread which is a healthy alternative to butter and margarine.

You May Also Be Interested In:

• Healthy Breakfast Options for Kids

• Super Foods for Good Health