Why you shouldn't skip breakfast

Many of us simply can’t face food first thing in the morning. Others never seem to have time. But studies have shown that those who eat breakfast are more alert, perform better academically and tend to consume fewer calories throughout the day than those who give it a miss.

As the word suggests, breakfast is literally 'breaking the fast' of the night before, fuelling up the body for the day ahead. Eating a wholegrain-based breakfast with some protein (such as Shreddies and milk or yogurt) helps balance blood sugar levels which is vital for concentration, mood and energy levels. This is because our brain uses up 20-30% of our energy consumption. And it is quite particular about its preferred source of fuel which is glucose. If the levels fluctuate because you have skipped meals or eaten very sweet foods it will be your brain that is most affected. This can lead to listlessness, irritability or even panic attacks.

If you really find it hard to eat in the morning try some of these suggestions to get you off to a good start:

• Eat something small – a piece of fruit or some berries, some cubes of cheese or a carton of low-fat yogurt are good, nutrient-rich choices.

• Find a cold cereal that you like. Cereals that contain some fibre and protein are the best choice – a porridge, muesli or Shredded Wheat with milk or yogurt.

• Drink breakfast - a smoothie made from milk, fruit and yogurt will give you the energy and nutrients to start the day. Choose ready-made products or make one yourself, using yogurt, fresh fruit, some juice and a spoonful of oats all whizzed together. Or if you haven’t got a blender make a roughie.

• Avoid highly processed convenience foods such as breakfast bars which tend to be high in fat, sugar and salt and low in fibre and other nutrients.
  

• If eating breakfast at home simply doesn't work pack an on-the-go breakfast such as a banana and yogurt, or a pack of nuts and raisins.