Eating a well-balanced breakfast is one of the best ways to start your day right. Nourishing your body with nutritious food first thing in the morning gives you the energy you need throughout the day, boosts your immune system, and even improves your mood. From eggs to yogurt, and oatmeal to cereal, the possibilities are quite endless. In fact, for many of us, toast is a household favorite. It’s quick, easy, and simply delicious too.
But what exactly is the best—and healthiest—way to prepare your morning toast? We asked Dr. Erin Barrett, PhD nutritional biochemistry and Director of Scientific Affairs and Product Innovation at Shaklee, to find out. Keep reading to learn more.
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What You Need To Know About Carbs And Weight Loss
According to Dr. Barrett, "Carbs are often seen as the enemy when it comes to weight loss. But contrary to popular belief, carbs are actually a very important part of a healthy diet and very important for maintaining a healthy weight." Before anything else, she clarifies that it’s important to choose carbs wisely "as some carbohydrate-rich foods are better than others."
She notes, "Be sure to load up on quality, nutrient-dense carbs and limit your intake of unhealthier sources of carbohydrates like white breads, pastas, sodas, and other highly processed or refined foods. Sources of quality carbs include whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans."
"One easy way to load up on quality carbs is with satisfying whole grains for breakfast," she tells us. "These quality carbs will fuel you and help keep your munchies at bay (which is key with weight loss)."
Additionally, she mentions, "If cold cereal is your go-to breakfast, choose cereals with whole grains, like wheat berries, oats, corn, millet, or buckwheat. Think shredded wheat, toasted oats, whole-grain, and bran-based cereals. Alternatively, enjoy a hot bowl of oatmeal, muesli, or quinoa."
Dr. Barrett shares that her personal favorite is avocado toast. "Start with a slice of multigrain toast or a whole wheat English muffin. Top your toast with avocado then add sprouts, sunflower seeds, and a squeeze of fresh lemon," she says. "This delicious breakfast delivers important nutrients including vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, as well as fiber which helps support weight control by helping you feel full (with fewer calories)."
The Best Way To Make Morning Toast
For a healthy, nutrient dense morning toast, Dr. Barrett suggests starting with whole grain or multigrain bread. "These breads are loaded with nutrients including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients," she explains. To upgrade your toast with more flavor, she recommends adding healthy fats from mashed avocado and a sprinkling of sesame or sunflower seeds.
Alternatively, you can also use creamy nut butter since these "fiber and protein-rich spreads are also loaded with healthy fats." Dr. Barrett says you might even want to consider topping your toast with some fruit for added fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These are all very delicious and healthy options!
