I’m a dietician – here are five breakfast favourites I would never eat… including instant porridge
A registered dietitian has revealed the five breakfast foods she would never eat – and they’re among the most popular choices among Brits.
Nutritionist Natalie Forester recommends avoiding any foods you can’t imagine growing, which rules out many options for a morning pick-me-up.
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Natalie said, “If you’re going to consume a packaged product, first look at the ingredients and ask yourself, ‘Can I see that ingredient growing?’
“Then ask the spirit of your so-wise great-great-grandmother if she knows what each ingredient is — and go from there.”
The first group of breakfast foods to avoid are packaged cakes, pastries, and cookies.
Many of these pre-packaged morning treats are high in trans fat, which can increase your risk of chronic disease.
Natalie said, “For that reason, they’re technically banned.” United States and many other countries.
“However, it’s important to note that even when a package says 0 grams of trans fats, that’s not always the case.”
“In the US, if a food contains less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving, the food label will say 0 grams of trans fat. Therefore, it is important to identify and avoid foods that may contain trans fat.”
The second group to avoid? White bread and refined grains that are deficient in nutrients and fiber.
In the morning, instead of white bread, opt for whole wheat or sprouted bread, bagels, and quinoa to ensure you start the day nourished.
Another popular option with Brits is the flavored instant oatmeal packets – but according to nutritionist Rebekah Blakely, these seemingly healthy oatmeal are packed with sugar.
She said, “Individual oats have zero to one gram of sugar, while a flavored packet often has 11 to 14 grams of sugar.”
“That means you’ve already eaten half your sugar for the day with a 150-calorie packet of oatmeal!”
The better option for anyone who loves oatmeal is oatmeal that you can add fresh fruit to.
Rebekah said, “You can still microwave regular oatmeal in a minute or two if needed — and if you really want to stick with the instant oatmeal packets, go for the original, unflavored version.”
Peanut butter on toast is a great way to get some protein in the morning, but if you’re going for the reduced-fat option, you might be making a mistake.
Rebekah says the full-fat peanut butter is healthier for the heart, eyes, and immune system.
She explained: “Yes, peanut butter is about 70 percent fat, but it’s mostly monounsaturated fat, which is heart healthy, and you’re getting a good source of fat-soluble vitamin E, an antioxidant that’s important for the health of eyes, heart and immune system is important.”
The last breakfast food to avoid is fruit cookies — which may be tempting to eat in the morning, but they’re not healthy.
Natalie said while she understands the appeal, the calories, saturated fat and sugar aren’t worth a moment’s glee.
Instead, opt for a chia bar with added fruit for your sweet pick-me-up.
Another nutritionist revealed this Reasons why it is difficult to stick to a new diet – and they may surprise you.
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