Do you often find yourself pushed for time in the morning, struggling for breakfast ideas? Maybe you’ve heard breakfast is the most important meal of the day but you’re still pondering “What should I eat for breakfast for PCOS”? If so, keep reading. This blog post explores if breakfast really is the most important meal of the day and gives some inspiration for PCOS breakfast ideas.
Why is breakfast so important?
Studies on individuals with PCOS show that those who regularly consume breakfast have a better metabolic profile than those who don’t(1, 2). One study found those who consume breakfast to have lower levels of insulin, associated with improved insulin resistance and thereon glucose metabolism - preventing dips and spikes in blood sugar and energy levels (1). While another study found breakfast skippers had increased circulating stress hormone: cortisol (2) which has been linked to hormone irregularities in those with PCOS (3).
Waiting until after breakfast to have your first coffee also really helps the body's stress cycle and cortisol levels (4). While so many people are reliant on that first caffeine hit to replace breakfast, it may be worth waiting until you have had your breakfast before pouring your first cup.
What makes the perfect PCOS friendly breakfast?
Just like every meal, it’s important that your breakfast is nutritionally balanced in order to feel the greatest benefits to improving your PCOS symptoms. This means it should ideally include a balance of the following nutrients (5):
Proteins: Eggs (boiled, scrambled or fried), yoghurt, tofu or salmon.
Fats: Nuts (and nut butters), seeds, avocado, salmon, flax, full fat dairy yoghurt.
Complex carbohydrates: Oats, multi seeded bread, bagels.
Whether you have time for a relaxing 30 minute breakfast at home or just a few minutes to grab something before you run out the door; or whether you prefer sweet or savoury flavours first thing in the morning, our list of breakfast ideas for PCOS should have you covered.
Breakfast ideas for PCOS
Sometimes people believe that a nutritionally balanced breakfast needs to be complicated or fancy, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Elevating your go-to breakfast to make it nutritionally balanced and PCOS friendly could simply mean adding a few ingredients. Continue reading for some ideas on how to make various sweet and savoury breakfasts to kick start your mornings.
