On the other hand, a balanced breakfast with nutrient-rich foods can lead to sustained energy and positively impact mental health. Sounds like a much better way to start your day, right? Unfortunately, nutritionists say many people are sabotaging their health in the morning without even realizing it by choosing a breakfast they think is healthy, but actually isn’t. Keep reading to find out what this surprisingly unhealthy breakfast choice is, and what to eat instead.
While it may be tempting to skip breakfast so you can get a head start on your day, don’t. “Skipping breakfast is pretty common. Mornings can be a mad dash to get out the door and it’s easy to just grab coffee and move on. But here’s the thing: Eating breakfast isn’t just about filling your stomach—it actually plays a big role in your long-term health,” says Dani Lebovitz, MS, RDN, a registered dietitian and founder of Kid Food Explorers.
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The Common Breakfast Food Many People Think Is Healthier Than It Actually Is
Of course, what you actually eat for breakfast determines how much you are supporting your body. Lebovitz says that one common breakfast food that isn’t as healthy as many people believe is protein bars. “Yes, protein is important, and those bars can be a lifesaver on crazy mornings. But either they’re packed with as much sugar as a candy bar or they’re filled with artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols,” she pointed out, adding that these ingredients can negatively impact digestion.
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Sarah Pelc Graca, CPT, PN-L1, a fitness and nutrition expert at Strong With Sarah, says that another common breakfast choice that many people think is healthy but actually isn’t is flavored yogurt topped with granola. “While yogurt itself can be a great source of protein, many flavored varieties are packed with added sugars. And granola can be surprisingly high in calories and fats and low in nutrients,” she says. Hernandez agrees, noting, “Fruit filled yogurt usually contains added sugar as the fruit is typically a form of preserves or jam.”
Similar to how high-sugar, low-fiber protein bars can negatively impact the body, Graca and Hernandez say that flavored yogurts can lead to unnecessary blood spikes, poor digestive health and won’t keep you full. “Regularly consuming high-sugar breakfasts can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes, leaving you feeling tired and hungry shortly after eating. Over time, it may contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance and increased cravings for more sugar throughout the day,” Graca warns.
If you typically have a protein bar for breakfast, Lebovitz recommends replacing it with a breakfast consisting of whole foods, such as a hard-boiled egg and fruit or overnight oats with chia seeds, nut butter and fruit. “Swapping a sugary protein bar—or one filled with sugar alcohols—for a breakfast with protein, fiber and healthy fats helps you feel fuller longer, keeps energy steady and cuts down on cravings,” she told us. ”No more mid-morning crashes or snack scavenging. Long-term, this can improve overall diet quality, lead to better blood sugar control and a lower risk of heart disease and diabetes.”
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Dani Lebovitz, MS, RDN, registered dietitian and founder of Kid Food ExplorersAdrian Hernandez, RDN, registered dietitian and AEH Nutrition owner Sarah Pelc Graca, CPT, PN-L1, fitness and nutrition expert at Strong With Sarah Read More Details
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