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Not straight out of a packet

Written by Staff Reporter

Thursday, 26 August 2010

Many people who come and see me in my clinic are starting their day with breakfast cereals. Having a breakfast is very important but what is equally important is what you chose to have. So what should you be eating for the most important meal of the day?

It's important firstly to understand why having breakfast is so important. Eating a breakfast helps you to regulate your metabolism for the rest of the day. This means that you are more likely to convert the food you are eating into energy as the day goes on, rather than storing it as fat. It's also essential to keep the brain working, meaning your concentration levels and ability to learn will be much improved.

However, if you chose one of the many boxes of cereals off the shelf, I'd advise you read the label. Many of the cereals are highly refined carbohydrates, for example processed wheat, corn or rice and excessive amounts of added sugar and salt. These cereals don't keep you going for long and will have you craving something by 10-11am. If you chose a cereal which is whole grain, has no added sugar and has a low level of salt and you'll have the foundation right. You can then add your own fruit or yogurt or nuts and seeds to this to make the breakfast even better!

Or of course, you can make your own. Porridge is great in the winter but I find in summer people prefer muesli. You can adapt this recipe to include any nuts, seeds or dried fruit you want. This will last for 4-5 days in the cupboard.

Homemade Muesli

200g rolled oats
3 tablespoons of wheat germ
¼ cup of raw sunflower seeds
¼ cup of almonds
¼ cup of raw cashews
½ cup of raisins
¼ linseeds
½ cup of desiccated coconut

Place the sunflower seeds, cashews, almonds and linseeds in a dry pan on the cooker or place under the grill for 5 minutes to toast. Add the coconut and wheat germ and toast for one minute more. Allow to cool. Mix well with the oats and the raisins. Keep in a sealed container.

To serve: 2 tablespoons of natural yogurt and some chopped fruit

If you are interested finding out how a tailored nutrition consultation could suit you, contact me on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or check www.foodforliving.ie

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