The One Meal You Really Shouldn't Skip

By Stepy Kamei

There are many bad habits out there that are tempting to fall into, even though we know they're detrimental to our health. Eating unhealthy foods which lack nutrition is one very common bad dietary habit that many of us have fallen into as our hectic lives and chaotic schedules have made it more difficult to take the time to cook wholesome meals. Another unhealthy dietary habit we've picked up goes in the opposite direction -- skipping a meal altogether.

Why You Shouldn't Skip Breakfast 

Polls have shown that almost half of working adults have admitted to skipping breakfast at least a few days each week. The reasons cited include lack of time, preparation, or feeling too stressed to even be hungry. Unfortunately, this is causing a whole host of health problems. People who skip breakfast are much more likely to experience decreased energy, weight gain, mood swings, and even more serious long-term consequences such as the development of conditions like diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. If you thought breakfast wasn't truly the most important meal of the day, you would do well to reconsider.

How To Fit Breakfast into Your Routine (Even on Busy Days)

If you are guilty of skipping out on breakfast on a regular basis, you should focus on changing this aspect of your routine. Think of eating breakfast as one of the most important things you can do for your health. It should be viewed as something that's as important as taking a shower or going to work. If you want to have a day in which you feel productive, energized, and motivated, do yourself a favor and take the time to prepare and eat a healthy, nutritious meal in the morning. Make sure your meals consist of good amounts of fiber and protein. These two important nutrients will help you feel full and keep your blood sugar levels stable throughout the morning, so you'll be less likely to overeat later on. Whole wheat toast with nut butter is a great option, as is full-fat Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and a hardboiled egg. 

If you're often rushing in the morning, there are ways to work around this so you can still fit in a healthy breakfast. Prepare a meal the night before so it's ready to eat in the morning. You can mix oats with milk, berries, and seeds in a mason jar and leave it in the fridge overnight for a tasty and super simple breakfast to wake up to.