RISE AND SHINE!

What is the first thing you eat when you wake up in the morning? Do you tend to skip breakfast in your rush out the door?  Do you grab the first donut, pastry, highly-sugared coffee, or cereal you can find?  In all honesty, most of us don't place a huge importance on our breakfast.

MOST IMPORTANT MEAL OF THE DAY
We've all heard how breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it's been true all along.  When we start our day, we are already in a fasted state.  Our body is begging for food when we wake up (especially proteins!).  Not only that, but we need to prepare our body for the day and all the energy it will expend. 

FOOD SELECTION
Our body will process simple carbs (sugars) first and faster than proteins/fats so the satisfaction and energy derived from these foods is short-lived.  Healthier alternatives could help keep you feeling fuller longer than our favorite carb-heavy breakfasts.  Proteins and good fats are a great way to keep you feeling full and also give you the good nutrients your body needs.  Here are some good examples that you can use to start your day:

• Eggs/egg whites, hard-boiled eggs
• Turkey bacon, turkey sausage
• Avocados
• Reduced fat cottage cheese
• Chicken
• Tuna
• Protein bars or shakes (these should be a last resort if you can't get any of the other foods above)

Remember, you don't have to keep yourself to traditional breakfast foods.  Lean meats you wouldn't normally eat for breakfast are great too!  Have leftovers from your chicken dinner last night?  Warm those up.  It's easy, ready to go, and will get your day started off right.