Introduction
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but not all breakfasts are created equal. Eating the wrong breakfast can have a negative impact on your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illness and infection. In this article, we’ll look at the #1 worst breakfast for your immunity, according to a dietitian, and what you should be eating instead. We’ll also discuss the importance of a healthy breakfast and how it can help to boost your immunity. So, if you’re looking to start your day off right and give your immune system a boost, read on to find out what you should be eating and what you should avoid.
The #1 Worst Breakfast For Your Immunity, Says Dietitian — Eat This Not That
If you’re looking to boost your immunity, you may want to rethink your breakfast choices. According to dietitian and nutritionist, the #1 worst breakfast for your immunity is sugary cereal. Sugary cereals are often high in sugar and low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can leave you feeling sluggish and can weaken your immune system.
Instead of sugary cereals, opt for a breakfast that is high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. This could include oatmeal with nuts and seeds, a smoothie with Greek yogurt and berries, or an egg and veggie scramble. These types of breakfasts will provide your body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and strong.
In addition to eating a healthy breakfast, make sure to get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, and drink plenty of water. These habits will help to keep your immune system functioning at its best. So, the next time you’re looking for a breakfast option, remember to eat this, not that!
When you’re trying to boost your immune health, there are many factors to consider. Some things you may want to try are getting plenty of sleep, trying to limit your stress levels (easier said than done), exercising regularly, or eating a healthy diet.
If you choose to try eating healthier foods to improve your diet and immune system, then you may be asking yourself which foods are helpful to eat and which ones should be avoided. For example, when it comes to breakfast foods, you’ll want to eat plenty of protein, fiber, and fruits.
According to Courtney D’Angelo, MS, RD, author at GoWellness, one of the worst breakfasts to eat for your immunity is pancakes or waffles. “Most of us eat pancakes and waffles with added sugar, syrup, chocolate, or whipped cream,” says D’Angelo. And because of its potential for an overload of added sugar, your immune system may suffer.
Why pancakes and waffles do not support a healthy immune system
When it comes to starting your day off in a way that’s healthy for your immunity, you want to avoid meals that are mostly made of added sugar and ones that have little to no protein or fiber.
For example, a study found in Nature Communications states that high levels of fructose can lead to a greater increase in inflammation, which may lead to a weakened immune system.
“Foods that are high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can spike your blood sugar levels and have a high glycemic index, which will increase inflammation, lead to energy level fluctuations, and an on-and-off appetite,” says D’Angelo, “and in turn, these side effects can result in a weakened immune system due to your body overworking itself and, more importantly, not having the proper nutrients it needs to function.”
A healthier way to eat pancakes and waffles
The good news is that you don’t have to avoid these sweet breakfast treats for good if they’re something you truly love. If you want to have a healthy immune system and still eat your pancakes too, there are some small ways to improve their nutritional value.
“If you want to eat pancakes or waffles for breakfast, try adding protein powder, fiber, and antioxidants to the recipe,” says D’Angelo, “so for instance, add antioxidant-rich blueberries instead of chocolate chips, or substitute white flour with fiber-rich oat flour, and toss in a scoop of healthy whey protein powder.”
For more healthy eating news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!
Read these next: