For many people, a daily cup of coffee feels like the perfect early morning pick-me-up. Just the act of brewing a pot of coffee—and its intoxicating smell—can be something to look forward to each morning.
Whether you take it black or with milk, a cup of joe can certainly help you wake up. Experts say, however, that when it comes to having sustained energy throughout the day, we need to fuel up on more than caffeine.
But before you pick up a croissant to go with your coffee, consider this: What you eat for breakfast could determine whether you cruise or crash through your afternoon's activities. Read on to learn what nutrition experts say to eat in the morning if you want to have more energy all day long.
READ THIS NEXT: If Your Hair Is Thinning, This Food Could Be to Blame, Study Says.
1 Whole grain cereals, breads, or oatmeals
Carbohydrates get a bad rap, but not only are they not bad for your health, they can also provide you with prolonged energy throughout the day. The key is to choose carbohydrates that are digested slowly, otherwise known as "slow carb" foods. In particular, whole grain cereals, whole grain breads, and oatmeal pack a major energy punch—and come with a whole host of other health benefits, too.
"High-fiber, whole-grain cereals and breads can help keep your blood sugar on an even keel and avoid a mid-morning energy crash," explains Harvard Health Publishing. "With the hundreds of types of cereal on the market, bran cereal, bran flakes, and steel-cut oatmeal are typically the healthiest bets."
To select the healthiest options, read the labels and make sure your selection is high in fiber, low in sodium and sugar, and lists "whole grain" as the first item on the ingredient list, Harvard experts advise.
READ THIS NEXT: Men Who Eat This Are at 29 Percent Higher Risk of Colorectal Cancer, New Study Finds.
2 Chia seeds
Packed with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, minerals, and antioxidants, chia seeds are a great addition to your diet. Eating them as part of your morning routine can also give you the energy boost you need, while helping you avoid a mid-morning crash.
According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, that's because chia seeds help "slow down digestion, which can prevent blood sugar spikes after eating a meal and promote a feeling of fullness," making you less likely to eat foods that will spike your blood sugar later.
3 Greek yogurt
Adding protein to your breakfast helps keep your energy levels high, Harvard experts note. They say that while "yogurt is a good choice, Greek yogurt has more protein than regular yogurt," making it even more beneficial.
In fact, Greek yogurt tends to have roughly double the amount of protein compared to traditional yogurt, Jason Ewoldt, RDN, LD, a wellness dietitian at the Mayo Clinic Healthy Living program, pointed out while speaking with AARP. Just be sure to check the sugar content before making your selection.
4 Fruit
Fruit is another high-fiber food that can help sustain your energy for longer—and luckily there are many easy ways to enjoy it with your breakfast.
"Fruits like apples, pears, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries are high in soluble fiber. Just like vegetables, many of these can be enjoyed raw," registered dietician Stephanie Coburn, MS, RD, tells Best Life. "You can also mix fruit into your morning oatmeal, top your morning cereal or yogurt with berries, or mix some of your favorite fruit into a smoothie," she suggests.
5 Eggs
Eggs are another great source of long-lasting energy. "They provide a nutrient-dense source of energy from protein and fat, approximately 75 kcal per large egg, as well as several B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, folate, B12, and B6, which are required for the production of energy by the body," explains a 2009 report in the journal Nutrition Today.
Healthy people can eat one egg per day without increasing their risk of developing heart disease, Harvard experts say.
Lauren Gray Lauren Gray is a New York-based writer, editor, and consultant.Read moreFiled UnderHealth Advice • Health Facts • Healthy Eating • NewsRead This Next4 Foods That Could Be Making You Depressed
Research increasingly points to the connection between food and mood. February 27, 20234 Foods That Could Be Making You Depressed
Research increasingly points to the connection between food and mood. February 27, 2023Everything You Need to Know About Ikigai, The New Hygge
Meet the next "life philosophy" trend sweeping the globe.October 17, 201730 Life Changes You Should Make After 30
You're too old to skip those doctors visits.February 20, 2018This Is Why Lying Is Good for You
A little fib never hurt anyone—in fact, lying may be good for you.March 26, 2018How I Look 15 Years Younger—And How You Can, Too
The plan is easy, effective, and works for everyone.August 30, 2018The Secret to Raising Healthy Kids
Hint: It's one of the oldest family traditions in the book. December 15, 201740 Genius Ways to Have More Energy After 40
Revamp your diet, lifestyle, and work habits for more energy—instantly.August 14, 201820 Surprising Reasons Your Hair is Thinning
Plus proven tricks to get your mane back on track.May 15, 2018The 7 Best Luxury Fitness Vacations
Thinking outside the beach? Try one of these amazing getaways.February 19, 2018
