Ever wondered what is considered a ‘healthy breakfast’? Recommendations from a government advisory committee, gives the thumbs up for coffee and eggs, but stands strong against sugary drinks. The committee has made recommendations on foods that we consume regularly that will go into consideration when the Agriculture and Health and Human Services Department update dietary guidelines in 2015.
“Many people need that java fix in the morning and throughout the day,” says nutrition expert Joey Thurman. “Drinking coffee black can lower your risk of Type II Diabetes, help burn fat and increase your energy before a workout. The tricky part with coffee is we tend to make this drink unhealthy with adding creamers, sugar and flavored syrups.”
Recommendations Thursdays has reported that dietary cholesterol is not considered a nutrient of concern for over-consumption and has OK’d eggs. There was no evidence that showed a relationship between heart disease and how much dietary cholesterol consumed. Thurman highly recommends eggs to any nutrition program, as they are a complete source of protein.
Another change of views was the approach on salt. The committee has increased the limitation on sodium to 2,300 milligrams a day, even for those who are at risk for heart disease.
Added sugar is still up there with concern. Americans now consume 13 percent of their daily calories from added sugar, like sugary drinks and sodas. Thurman points out that people often forget that condiments, like ketchup and BBQ sauce, often hide sugar consumption as well.
“We should always stick to a diet that is full of natural colors,” says Thurman. “A diet that is full of lean meats, whole grains and fresh fruits and veggies is still the best diet and proves to prevent diseases.”
