Staying Healthy : Take A Look At Your Diet 

The diet is an important component to consider when it comes to your health. People with busy schedules make it a habit to skip meals, consume junk food or maintain irregular eating patterns. This week we look at the importance of having breakfast and the nutritional value of vegetables and fruits. 

The Importance Of Breakfast 

Breakfast is the most important meal for your body. It refuels your body, gets your metabolism working and improve energy levela throughout the morning. Research shows that people who eat breakfast find it easier to control their weight. Eating breakfast also helps to manage hunger aand skipping breakfast can result in a 2.5kg increase in weight in an year. By starting your day with breakfast it will be easier to follow a healthy dietary plan to lose your weight. 

It has been found that lack of time is one of the main reasons to skip breakfast. If you maintain a healthy eating pattern, it will help you to stop overeating and will allow you to wakeup with a good appetite. In addition to that, working out in the morning also helps you to increase your appetite in the morning. 

Eating Regularly 

Eating regularly throughout the day helps control the appetite and prevents overeating during meal times. It is advisable to eat at least a snack every 3-5 hours. Therefore you always have to plan your meals. 

Vegetables And Fruits 

Vegetables and fruits are a great source of vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber and are low in Kilojoules (KJ). Bulking up your meals with extra vegetables and salads is a good way to satisfy your appetite. This also helps to lose weight. 

Ways To Enjoy Vegetables 

*Vegetable soup 
*Corn on the cob 
*Mixed salads 
*Grilled/baked vegetables 
*Stir-fried vegetables 

Fruits are also a great source of vitamins and minerals and are low in fat. They are a good source of fiber and this makes them a great snack. All fruits are good for your health and it is advisable to eat a variety of them everyday. 

Ways To Enjoy Fruits 

*Chop a banana and add to your bowl of cereal in the morning 
*Fruit salad and yoghurt 
*Crunch an apple while on the run 
*Treat yourself with a sweet, tropical fruit 

By Kamanthi Wickramasinghe 
Information provided by Manoj Kumar, Instructor, High Octane Fitness 
Information facilitated by Strong.lk