Why You Need a Protein at Breakfast
By Sara Butler
Breakfast is the one chance you have each day to really get your metabolism going. In fact, doing breakfast right can set you up for success all day long, providing the energy your body needs to get through and helping you to make healthy eating choices. A healthy breakfast is one that provides a balance of complex carbohydrates, fats, and, of course, protein. If you can fit in a good amount of protein in your morning meal, then it can set you up to reap the benefits all day long -- and here are a few of the ways it can benefit you.
It Builds Muscle
If you want to keep your muscles strong and lean as you get older, then you have to make sure to get enough protein each day. Researchers have found that having adequate protein at breakfast can help keep you from losing muscle mass as you get older and can even help you build more muscle. In short, make your workout more effective and turn back the clock with a little more protein at the start of each day.
It Pumps Up Your Metabolism
One of the reasons it's important to build muscle mass is because it helps to keep your metabolism going strong. Part of the reason why so many people struggle with weight gain in middle age is because they lose muscle and when that happens, their metabolism slows down too. When you eat protein, it takes time and energy to get broken down in your system, and that can help keep your metabolism going strong after meals too.
It Keeps You Full
How many times have you skipped breakfast or had something unhealthy, only to be starving by the time lunch rolls around? If you can combine fiber and protein in your morning meal to keep you full, then you can make it through your morning without hunger pangs.
This has the added benefit of allowing you to concentrate on what you need to do to be productive during the morning instead of focused on how hungry you are and waiting for lunchtime to roll around. And you'll be less likely to give in to unhealthy cravings too!
Less Snacking Later
Your breakfast choices can have an impact on you all day long, including the choices you make after dinner. Studies have found that people who eat protein-packed breakfasts were less likely to make poor snack choices later in the day.
Breakfast is an important meal, but that cup of coffee isn't going to cut it alone. Make sure to add protein to really help fuel your day.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lynnwood, Wash.