Eating a healthy breakfast is essential but it may not be best to start your day with a full meal. Your body, internal organs and various process need time to wake up and kick-start their function after long hours of rest. Health experts advice that it is best to start your day with some warm water or a small snack to get your metabolism going. Here's a quick list of 8 healthy foods that you can eat in the morning before your first meal. Choose your pick or experiment every day. We asked our consultant nutritionist, Dr. Rupali Datta to help us pick the right foods and make good early morning choices. She recommends that you should only eat breakfast two hours after waking up and in the meanwhile begin your day with the following:
1. Honey with Warm WaterThis combination is known to improve digestion and immunity. When you have it early morning on an empty stomach it helps to boost your metabolism. Unlike other drinks for weight loss, the honey, lemon and water mix has very few calories. Moreover, honey helps in boosting your energy levels as well as in the removal of toxins.(Also read: Why Raw Honey is Better Than Regular Honey)
2. Soaked Almonds
Soaked almonds are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. When you soak them, their nutrient value is enhanced. After a long fasting period it is good to eat 5-10 almonds. It gives you nutrition early morning and also improves satiety through the day. According to Weight Management, Gargi Sharma, "The brown peel of almonds contains tannin which inhibits nutrient absorption. Once you soak almonds the peel comes off easily and allows the nut to release all nutrients easily."
3. Amla JuiceFresh amla juice should be taken on an empty stomach but after having it you should avoid coffee or tea for at least 45 minutes. Amla is rich in vitamin C and helps boost your immunity. It is often stated in Ayurveda that eating amla on a regular basis adds longevity to your life. According to Dr. Ashutosh Gautam, Clinical Operations and Coordination Manager at Baidyanath, "The alkaline nature of amla helps in clearing the system and strengthening the digestive system." It also helps in maintaining clear skin, healthy hair and good eyesight.
4. PapayaIt is good to eat papaya on an empty stomach early morning as it cleans your stomach and is excellent for smooth bowel movement. Avoid eating anything after having papayas for at least an hour. Papayas have also been known to lower bad cholesterol that can be a precursor to heart disease.(Also read: 7 Foods You Should Never Have On a Empty Stomach)
5. Chia Seeds
These tiny seeds are actually complete protein as they contain all nine essential amino acids. They are also rich in essential fatty acids, magnesium, iron and B vitamins. Soak a teaspoon of these super seeds in water overnight and have them once you wake up. You can even soak them in coconut milk or almond milk and have a smoothie or make a quick breakfast bowl with fresh fruits.
6. WatermelonThis fruit should only be eaten on an empty stomach. The best time to have watermelon is early morning. Watermelon is low in calories and full of electrolytes. It is nourishing, light and hydrating and makes for a great start to a summer morning.
This is an Ayurvedic preparation where desi ghee is infused with bitter herbs like neem, manjistha and more (also known as Tikta Ghrita). Bitter taste in Ayurveda is known to be cooling, cleansing and helps in reducing anti-microbial activity. You can have one teaspoon every day with warm water but avoid eating anything for at least half an hour after having it. Bitter ghee also helps in regulating blood sugar, reduces inflammation and cleanses and purifies blood when had regularly. 8. DatesDates are a great source of instant energy that is much needed to kick start your day. Dates also contain a bunch of soluble fibers which are essential for good digestive health because it draws water into the digestive tract. This also helps relieve constipation. The potassium found in dates can also treat upset stomachs and diarrhea.
The simplest habits can have a great impact on your health. These easy morning rituals can help you feel energized and active throughout the day.