Breakfast: Fuel for Thought

Breakfast: Fuel for Thought

Breakfast provides women with the nutrients and energy they need to face their fast-paced days. But it may benefit more than their bodies. Having a morning meal also can help women boost their brainpower.

Mental Jump-start
Just eating some food in the morning seems to improve concentration and problem-solving skills. But a breakfast that offers fat, protein, fiber, and carbohydrates also can help keep memory sharp.

Breakfast may have some other advantages as well. Some research shows that breakfast eaters tend to be happier, more relaxed, and have less emotional stress than “skippers.”

Break for Variety
Choosing the right foods is key to tapping into breakfast’s benefits. Skip high-carbohydrate options, such as sugary cereal or donuts. These choices provide only empty calories that elevate blood sugar levels—which in turn slow your body’s fat-burning rate.

Instead, opt for items that offer a variety of nutrients. Your choices don’t have to be fancy or traditional to meet these needs. All of the following foods can be part of a healthy breakfast:

  • A bowl of oatmeal or ready-to-eat oat bran cereal
  • A meal-replacement shake or a high-protein breakfast bar
  • A whole-grain waffle or whole-wheat toast
  • A glass of low-fat milk, orange juice, or other fruit juice
  • A leftover slice of cheese pizza
  • A hard-boiled egg. Research shows that healthy women can have up to one egg a day without raising heart risks.
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