Good coaches drill the fundamentals of a sport into your head until they become second nature. So here’s a nutrition fundamental you need to know: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating a healthy meal starts your day off right. When you skip breakfast, you have less energy to burn, which inhibits your brainpower and reduces muscular strength and endurance.
We recently reviewed the performance benefits of eggs—a frequent breakfast favorite—so this week we decided to examine another easy breakfast food that saves you time and meets your nutritional needs: oatmeal.
Oatmeal is a delicious, easy-to-prepare breakfast selection that recharges your body after a good night’s sleep. Depending on your favorite brand, you’re getting approximately 30 grams of complex carbohydrates, providing the energy you need to get your day off to a strong start. Among additional benefits, oatmeal is rich in fiber, low in fat and low-glycemic, so you’re not packing on pounds and getting a sugar rush at the same time.
Just drop a cup of oatmeal in water and cook per package directions, either stove-top or microwave. When serving, add skim milk for additional protein and your favorite fruit for healthy simple sugars and fiber.
Athletes who set their sights on getting to the next level need a substantial amount of energy. Nobody will offer you a full ride if you’re dragging your heels because you blew off breakfast to get 10 more minutes of sleep. Do yourself a favor. Take the time to give your body a wake-up call in the morning. Oatmeal can help you take that extra step toward reaching your athletic goals.
For more breakfast inspiration, check out this Super Oatmeal recipe.
Photo:  eatingbender.com