
I recently was reviewing meal and snack options with a client when she asked me a question that I had not been asked before. "Is it okay to have a turkey sandwich for breakfast?" I thought for a brief moment about what her question meant and answered her with yes! Later that day I thought about her question further and decided share with you my thoughts on good nutrition and why limiting your options can create boredom and cause your body to struggle with weight loss.
The amount of calories you eat per day should come from a well-balanced meal plan. We all have heard about the food pyramid, the food groups and what we should and should not eat. How you pair these groups together can make a difference in how your body responds to the nutrients it is receiving and the energy levels it feels during the day. Remember, the total calories per day are just that...a total. If you eat a low-sodium sliced turkey sandwich for breakfast you are getting some fats, some whole grains and some protein in the meal. There is nothing wrong with having that meal instead of cooked oatmeal and some sliced almonds. It all depends on your tastes. Some people do not like breakfast foods. That is fine. Your body does need nourishment in the morning after fasting for up to 12 hours after your last meal so it is important to feed it properly. What you feed it is up to you.
Limiting yourself to the same meals day after day can become boring. It is important to mix up your meal plans and snacks to not only avoid boredom, but also to challenge your body to burn the calories in different ways. If you eat the same thing day after day for months your body will not get the variety of nutrients it needs and you may find yourself eating more to satisfy your cravings for something different.
So, eat a turkey sandwich, eat oatmeal, eat breakfast foods for dinner. The important thing to remember is you should be eating a well-balanced meal that nourishes your body and provides the energy you need to tackle the challenges life throws your way!

1 comment:
I like your thoughts about breakfast, T. I have two girls that stay as far away as possible from the breakfast foods. A toasted turkey sandwich is a staple in our house. Paired with a fruit, I feel is a good way to get them ready for the day, and then they aren't starving at lunchtime and get crap for lunch :)
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