Why a Low-Glycemic, Low-Fat Breakfast is So Important
What It’s All About
A low-glycemic, low-fat breakfast might sound like a good idea, but it’s impossible to put together a meal plan unless you can identify just what a low-glycemic and low-fat food is. The glycemic index was created to help people understand how the sugars in foods affect our blood sugar levels after eating them.
This is especially important for those who suffer from diabetes, as the higher a food is on the glycemic index the more it affects blood sugar levels which makes it hard to control this particular disease. Whether you have diabetes or not a low-fat, low-glycemic diet can help to maintain proper digestion, a steady metabolism, and a healthy weight.
Generally, fruits are on the low end of the glycemic index while meats and refined foods such as white bread are found on the high end. The more starchy the vegetable, the higher glycemic count it has. When sticking with a low-fat, low-glycemic diet choose whole grains, plenty of fruits and lots of green leaf vegetables.
Tasty Low-Glycemic, Low-Fat Breakfast Ideas
Cereals are a great option for those who have a tight schedule in the morning. Choose whole grain options that don’t have a lot of added sugars in them such as All Bran, muesli, or oatmeal. Cut up a fresh apple or peach and enjoy!
There is nothing wrong with starting your day with a salad full of low-glycemic, low-fat foods. It’s filling, energizing and will keep you going until lunch. Choose a low-fat dressing to top a bowl of fresh broccoli, lettuce, mushrooms, and red peppers.
Make a smoothie out of fresh bananas and berries that you can take with you while on your way out the door. You don’t need to add any sweeteners to the smoothie as the bananas will make this one creamy, satisfying, and sweet treat. In fact, you’ll think you are having dessert for breakfast!
Baked apples are a great weekend treat. Just slice up some fresh apples and put them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the apples with cinnamon and currents, and bake them for about 20 minutes before enjoying them.
As long as the bread is whole grain, you can make healthy French toast that the whole family will love. Use soy milk and egg whites to create the batter for your bread and you will save a ton of unnecessary fat and calories too. Don’t forget to add some bulk by choosing oranges or another fruit to enjoy the warm goods with.
As you can see a low-glycemic, low-fat breakfast can be as quick, easy, and tasty as any other breakfast you might be accustomed to. The trick is to learn the glycemic value of your favorite foods and to be creative with the ones you can freely eat.
Resources
Glycemic Index “What is the Glycemic Index?” retrieved January 18, 2011
Nutrition Data “Glycemic Index” retrieved January 18, 2011
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
