If you grew up in the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, or the early 2000’s you likely were raised on cereal, toast, pop-tarts, and oatmeal for your first meal of the day. Basically, you were sent off to school with a full-blown sugar rush - insert: constant blood sugar crashes and the need for an afternoon nap.
So, if not sugar + carbs, what should your first meal of the day entail?
Ideally, your first meal of the day should be composed of 30-50 grams of high-quality protein. After undergoing a 12-16 hour fast where your body has been relying on nutrient stores, like protein, for energy, you wake up in a catabolic state and you need to focus on repair.
What happens when you begin your day with 30-50 grams of protein?
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You consume enough leucine to activate protein synthesis
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Protein synthesis is activated to ensure repair and rebuild
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You feel satiated and full, holding you over for 3-5 hours
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You support blood sugar balance keeping you energized and focused
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Neurotransmitter production is supported - like dopamine and serotonin
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You consume an appropriate amount of all nine of the essential amino acids
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You crave less sugar and carbs during the day
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Your mood is supported and stabilized
Although protein is something we recommend for you to center all your meals around, aiming for 0.8 grams of protein per pound of ideal body weight, it is especially important to begin your day with a protein-packed meal to ensure your body functions optimally throughout the day.
We promise you that if you begin your day like this you will feel 100x stronger, sharper, clearer, and more energized.
