Let’s face it: many of us are quite groggy in the morning, and when it comes to breakfast, we often grab the first thing we see in the fridge and scarf it down – if we even eat breakfast at all. However, as it truly is the most important meal of the day, it is crucial to make our breakfast count, by filling it with optimal nutrition.
While there are many great breakfast combinations that can be made from wholesome, natural ingredients, combining the following six ingredients is not only delicious, it can also provide you with a great boost of energy and sustenance to truly supercharge your day.
Organic yogurt
Organic yogurt not only nourishes your body with a healthy source of protein, minerals including iodine, phosphorus and zinc and vitamin B12, it is also a valuable source of probiotics, which aid in feeding healthy bacteria in the gut. Healthy gut bacteria is crucial to the optimal functioning of the digestive system, as well as the immune system.
Furthermore, a diet rich in yogurt has been linked to a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Always choose organic, grass-fed yogurt, made with whole milk for superior nutrition. Also, make sure the label specifies “live and active cultures.”
Bananas
Bananas are an excellent fruit for heart health, as they contain potassium, which aids in the regulation of heart rate and balances out sodium levels, which if left unchecked can lead to hypertension. They also contain sterols, which aid in blocking the body’s absorption of cholesterol. The combination of fiber and natural sugars found in bananas can give you energy throughout the day.
Additionally, bananas contain mood-boosting B-vitamins and tryptophan, as well as vitamin C, which is imperative to immune system health. They have also been found to help soothe the digestive system.
Apples
Along with ample amounts of vitamin C and fiber, apples contain a wealth of antioxidants. These include the flavonoid antioxidants quercetin, kaempferol and myricetin, as well as phenolic and chlorogenic acid. The combination of these antioxidants helps to combat free radical damage in the body, and may also aid in lowering blood sugar and preventing certain cancers.
Be sure to choose organic apples, however. Apples are one of the most pesticide-laden foods out there when grown conventionally, and since much of the nutrition is concentrated in the peel, you don’t want to to have to remove it.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked by a large body of research to heart health, cognitive health, anticarcinogenic properties and a reduced risk of insulin resistance. They are also a good source of protein and fiber, and are rich in calcium.
Unlike flaxseeds, which also contain high levels of omega-3s, chia seeds do not have to be ground to be enjoyed – making them extremely convenient to add to your meals.
Bee pollen
Bee pollen is an excellent source of highly digestible protein, and is the only plant-based food that contains vitamin B12. It also contains other B-vitamins, a wealth of minerals, and both carotenoid and flavonoid antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation throughout your body, thus reducing the risk of many chronic illnesses.
This superfood has been linked to reducing sensitivity to local allergens, boosting the immune system and improving digestive function, along with providing a healthy source of energy.
Cinnamon
Not only does this ancient spice make your breakfast taste delicious, it also provides many important health perks. The essential oils found in cinnamon include the active compounds cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate and cinnamyl alcohol. These compounds have been found to have potent antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.
Cinnamon also contains the minerals calcium and manganese, and has been linked to lowering blood pressure, protecting against heart attack and stroke, lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity.
There are endless ways to incorporate these six superfood ingredients into your breakfast. The simplest would be to slice up some raw apples and bananas, top with yogurt mixed with chia seeds and bee pollen, and sprinkle some cinnamon on top. You could also use them to whip up a fantastic smoothie.
Mind you, this is just the tip of the iceberg – use your imagination and get ready to have an excellent start to your day!
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=124
