For a working mum of four, mornings are hectic to say the least! I am always more worried about my kids getting their breakfasts than I am about me! But I realized, after many years of NOT eating breakfast, how grumpy and moody I became. Research has shown that when we consume sugary breakfast cereals or pastries, our blood sugar levels spike. Then excess insulin is produced and within just a few short hours our blood sugar levels come crashing back down, leaving us hungry again. Not only do we want to eat again, but this is also likely to make us grumpy and agitated too. For this reason it is best to eat a healthy wholefood breakfast, and here are my favourite recipes for those crazy days. I’ve even created three that you can take away with you if you’re on the go.
superfood superheroes
1. Quinoa
Quinoa is a gluten-free seed that is packed full of protein, fibre and minerals. Although not technically a grain, it is often classed as a whole grain and is one of the healthiest options in this category. Its fibre content is twice that of most other grains, which means great things for your cholesterol, blood sugar levels and weight management. Quinoa also contains all of the essential amino acids, making it a fantastic source of protein!
2. Honey
Honey is a natural combination of sugars, water, minerals, vitamins, pollen and protein. It also contains an abundance of important vitamins such as vitamin B6, thiamine, niacin and riboflavin, in addition to a host of minerals such as potassium, zinc, magnesium, iron, copper and calcium. Honey is also rich in certain types of antioxidants, known as flavonoids, which are amazing for reducing free radical damage to cells!
3. Chia seeds
Chia seeds are without a doubt one of the healthiest foods on the planet! They are packed full of nutrients and are incredibly low in calories. In fact, they are so tiny that they are actually tasteless and can be added to virtually any meal to increase its health benefits! Their use throughout history can be traced back to the Aztecs and the Mayans, the word ‘chia’ meaning ‘strength’ in the Mayan language.
4. Berries – all berries
All berries are super healthy. They are high in vitamin C and a great source of fibre. Not only that, but they are also known to help boost the immune system.