The Best Time Of Day To Eat Breakfast

That breakfast is the "most important meal of the day" is an adage that seems to be well-rooted in scientific fact. Eating breakfast helps to restore your blood sugar and can even prevent you from overeating later in the day (via WebMD). But everyone's morning routine is different — some work out first thing in the morning, some have to rush to work before they can eat, and others just don't feel like eating right away. Is there a "best" time of day to eat breakfast?

You should eat breakfast within two hours of waking up, and ideally, within the first hour, according to Eat This, Not That!. The nutrients you consume first thing in the morning can set you up for greater mental clarity and give you an energy boost. Breakfast can also help with insulin regulation and may even activate genes associated with metabolizing fat. Surprisingly, the benefits last all day, as people that eat breakfast are less likely to indulge in a late-night snack.

If you simply don't feel like eating first thing in the morning, a late dinner may be to blame (via Elite Daily). Heavy meals can take all night to digest, so it follows that you wouldn't be interested in a large breakfast. You can still reap the benefits, however, by grabbing a piece of fruit or a protein bar. This can kick-start your metabolism and help balance your blood sugar.

If you work out first thing in the morning, you may not want to fill up on breakfast. The good news is that your first meal of the day doesn't have to be large. Athletes and gym-goers should prioritize simple carbs for energy, like half of a banana (via Women's Health Mag). It can help you fuel your workout without making you feel nauseous. You'll perform better with less risk of light-headedness or distraction.

No matter what your morning routine looks like, or even if you sleep in, aim to eat something one to two hours after you wake up. The best choices are light, easy-to-digest nutrients that will set you up for a clear-headed and productive day.