Breakfast is an essential meal for anyone but when you have a disability, it is essential not to skip the most important meal of the day. Food is a medicine and can prevent illness, help us heal and stop existing conditions getting worse.
One of the challenges in eating healthily is all the planning involved in shopping, preparing and thinking about what to eat. Everyone has slightly different nutritional needs but there are general foods that will be suitable for the majority of people.
Protein is usually a good choice, particularly for those people who are over 65 who need more protein than younger people.
Eggs
are high in protein and provide a good portion of vitamins, and there are so many ways to cook them. How could you ever get bored of eggs? Scrambled, boiled, poached, fried or baked there is almost a different kind for each day of the week!
Yoghurt and Oatmeal
Greek yoghurt is packed full of protein and one low in sugar is a healthier option. You can make it taste nicer by adding fruit, nuts or oatmeal. Yoghurt is also a good source of dairy but may not be suitable for those with an intolerance or allergy.
Avocado
is packed with healthy fats and fibre and can be made into several different meals. Avocado on toast, eat it with eggs or make it into a smoothie. There are so many different things to do with avocado.
Grapefruit
is known for its fat burning properties and can help you to lose weight. Grapefruit is also beneficial because of its effect on blood sugar and insulin levels. Grapefruit is also hydrating, filling, and packed with immunity-boosting antioxidants. You can eat grapefruit on its own, in a fruit salad, use it to make marmalade or sprinkle it with ground ginger and grill it.
Toast, Bagels and Croissants
May not be quite as healthy as some of the other options on here, depending on what you put on them. Toast is high in carbohydrates and fibre depending on the type you buy, but is low in protein, fats and other nutrients so to make it healthier you need to add something to it, such as eggs. Bagels are a good breakfast staple and there are loads of ways to eat them, such as adding avocado, eggs or cream cheese and salmon trimmings. Delicious! There are healthier choices for breakfast than croissants, but if you enjoy them and don’t eat them every day, a little of what you fancy does you good.
What’s your favourite breakfast meal? We’d love to hear from you in the comments.
Would you like some help in the morning to prepare a healthy breakfast? Get in touch with us to find out more about how our carers can support your mealtimes.
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