It’s no old wives tale; breakfast is scientifically proven to be the most important meal of the day.
Eating first thing in the morning boosts metabolism, increases energy and restores our glucose levels to normal. Pretty essential, as our bodies effectively enter ‘fasting mode’ overnight.
Although eating breakfast increases both our physical and mental performance, it’s often the ‘forgotten’ mealtime. This is particularly the case on weekdays, when we’re all rushing off to work.
Need persuasion to make breakfast part of your daily routine? Here’s our favourite stat: eating breakfast can help to maintain healthy skin.
How?! We’ve talked before about the links between stress and sensitive skin.
Eating breakfast lowers levels of the stress hormone, Cortisol, which is actually at its highest levels in the body when we wake each morning.
Cortisol reaches its peak in our internal system between 7-8am daily. Our consumption of breakfast immediately lowers the blood level of this stress hormone.
This ‘resets’ us, so we enjoy a happier start to the day – with hopefully calm, clearer skin to match!
Need some inspiration? Here are some of our favourite breakfast dishes, to help you fall back in love with your first meal of the day…
Weekday Breakfasts
For most of us, speed is paramount Monday to Friday. That said, breakfast on the go can very easily be made more exciting than simply a breakfast bar, or a piece of fruit.
Smoothie
We are all smoothie lovers at Pai HQ; they’re one of the easiest and healthiest options out there.
If you want to get ahead, try preparing ingredients in advance – it makes popping them into your blender so much easier than having to dice up fruit and veg first thing. Concerned a breakfast smoothie won’t fill you up enough? Try adding half an avocado – it makes it amazingly creamy and filling.
Our favourite smoothie options are the antioxidant-rich glowing skin smoothie and Deliciously Ella’s green smoothie recipe – this one’s packed to the rafters with low-sugar sweetness!
Mini-frittata
One of our favourite new discoveries, a mini frittata makes a brilliant breakfast option.
They are bite-sized, easily portable and delicious! The bonus: a batch of veg packed mini-frittatas will last a couple of days in the fridge.
The soul-food sisters strike again; this Hemsley Hemsley recipe is a great starting point – you can then just chuck in whatever veg you have to hand.
Instant porridge
Although they’re handy, we’re not huge fans of shop-bought instant porridge pots. Packed with sugar and at £1-2 a pop, they’re often a pretty pricey option! Recently we discovered a DIY option from the brilliant Gluten Free Rosie. Its two-minute preparation time gives you a dish that’s high in fibre, low in saturated fats and low GI – it’s answered our breakfast prayers!
Breakfasts for the weekend
There’s nothing better than a leisurely breakfast or brunch with friends at the weekend. It’s a chance to take a bit more time on your food and go all out with your preparations!
Sweet tooth?
Try these guilt-free banana bread pancakes from My New Roots. Perfect for your gluten-free guests, they’re rich, nutty and taste extra gorgeous with the (optional) dark chocolate garnish.
Seeking savoury & spicy?
The classic ‘huevos rancheros’ is what you’re after. Check out this recipe from Jamie Oliver – it’s a great crowd-pleaser.
Oaty, feel-good & filling…
Taking some time to toast your oats and grains will make such a difference to the flavours of this warming porridge. The succulent pears are topped off with a drizzle of maple syrup and flaked almonds.
(Image via 26 Grains)
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