What is a well-balanced breakfast?

The ultimate goal with breakfast is to have a well-balanced meal with high-fiber carbohydrates, some lean protein, and a little healthy fat. A good way to gauge whether your breakfast is balanced is to take note of how long it takes before you feel hungry again. If you feel hungry an hour later, usually it is because your breakfast was too high in carbohydrates, loaded with sugar, and/or not high enough in fiber and protein.

A well balanced breakfast includes foods from at least three out of the five food groups. Whole grain breads and cereals; low fat dairy products, and fruit are typical breakfast choices. Choosing a high fiber cereal with low fat milk or yogurt for breakfast has been linked to improved weight or weight loss. Studies have also shown breakfast that includes a lean protein food and a serving of whole grain may aid in weight loss.