Is It Healthy To Eat Salad For Breakfast?

There are some foods that are so versatile, they can be eaten anytime of the day, like cold pizza for breakfast or bacon and eggs for dinner. Salads are one of these foods, which can be prepared in endless ways and for any meal, even breakfast. Eat This, Not That! offers 15 versions of healthy breakfast salads to enjoy before you start your day, and while the thought of lettuce with your coffee may sound unappealing, don't knock it until you try it.

According to Healthline, eating salad for breakfast is more common on the eastern parts of the globe, and has proven to be a healthy start to the day. Eating more salads can boost your mood and productivity, assist with weight loss, and improve your digestion. Los Angeles based dietician, Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND, tells Byrdie that "A good breakfast includes protein (to allow for a sustained level of energy), some carbs (for a quick burst of energy), veggies (vitamins, minerals, fiber), and a little heart-healthy fat for taste and satisfaction." 

A salad can easily contain all of these nutrients, and with regard to adding more fruits and vegetables to your daily diet, Harvard Health Publishing reports multiple health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease, preventing certain cancers, and supporting a healthy digestive system.

Healthline suggests starting off with a foundation of leafy greens such as spinach, cabbage, and romaine lettuce, then adding in cruciferous vegetables (broccoli and cauliflower), and other favorites like bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers. This veggie base is full of fiber, which can help you feel fuller longer and assist in digestion (per Mayo Clinic). In addition, the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in vegetables have been shown to decrease the risk of many chronic health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. 

Adding ample lean protein to your breakfast bowl, such as hardboiled eggs, nuts, and beans, can help sustain hunger, assist with weight loss, and help maintain muscle mass (via Runner's World). Pair this with healthy fats, like avocado or olives, and complex carbs, like oats or quinoa, for a heart healthy breakfast that will extend your energy levels through the day (via HuffPost).

You can create a salad from a variety of as many ingredients as you prefer, and for breakfast, it can be fun to spice it up by adding fruits, seeds, and on occasion, even bacon. Conveniently, a salad can be prepared in advance, making it an additional perk for those needing food on-the-go, which eradicates the excuse of having no time for a healthy breakfast.