Breakfast and metabolism question

Metabolism is the rate that we convert our energy stores into kinetic energy. Every increase in energy demand increase our metabolism for the duration of the demand (exercise is shown to have an 'afterburn' effect- which i won't go into) so generally speaking:
- being awake uses more energy than being asleep (usually)
- walking uses more energy than siting
- running needs more than waking etc.

Eating also raises the metbolism slightly due to the energy demands of digestion- BUT it's not more than the energy we are taking into our bodies through eating.

So in effect, you could say that breakfast increases our metabolism (at whatever time we eat it)- BUT does not raise it all day (Kick- start it) and does not make us more efficient at fat burning or any other such nonsence.

Studies have shown that people who eat a lower calorie breakfast (say 250-300 cals) are less likely to get hungry at 11.00 and run to the snack machine and grab chocolate and crisps at say 500 cals (makes sense). BUT if that's not you- then there is no need to eat breakfast. Timing of food does not affect total calories consumed. (There is some known hormonal differences with some night workers- and also possibly eating greater amounts than required- in some studies - but that's a whole other issue)

That's my understanding- happy to be corrected.

krokador wrote: »

"Breakfast" is important. It's the first meal you have in the day, when you break your fast. You want it to be filling, high in protein, not too high in carbs and fat and definitely not sugar-filled cereals.

Now that that's said, what time you decide to break your fast is entirely up to you. I don't like to eat before I hit the gym (first thing in the AM), because it makes me feel all groggy and bloaty. Some people can't get through a workout without having a meal first. Find what works for you. The whole starvation mode crap is mostly a scare tactic to get you to buy supps and meal plans and whatnot. (It's real, just not as easy to attain as the "specialists" make it sound).

As long as you eat enough to fuel your muscles (1200 cals might be a bit low depending on where you're at) and exercise a good amount, your metabolism will stay up. Don't wait 'til you're starving to eat, either. Not worth it and you raise your chances of binging in the long run.

Whats wrong with a high carb or high fat breakfast?