Breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day. But for many Americans, this meal could be sabotaging their long-term health. Why? Because of the choice of food they eat. The meal that is supposed to fuel you in the morning may be secretly harming you. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a leading California-based gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford, has explained how certain breakfasts can harm health. “Your morning routine might be setting you up for health problems all day long. Here’s what could really be happening: Many breakfast foods that seem healthy are actually loaded with ingredients linked to cancer,” Dr. Sethi warned. Breakfasts that harm your health
What you eat has a significant impact on your health. A diet not only provides fuel for your body but also significantly impacts your overall health. While some foods can improve your health, others can destroy. According to Dr. Sethi, some breakfast staples are linked to chronic illnesses, including cancer. He has listed the biggest offenders, and it will leave you surprised. Bacon: A staple in the American breakfast, bacon is, however, loaded with nitrates, that is linked to stomach and colon cancer.Breakfast cereals: Most people enjoy having ready-to-eat cereals for breakfast. But Dr. Sethi warns about the excessive added sugar in them, which is linked to diabetes, obesity, and related illnesses. Granola: Yes, store-bought granola is no better. It is loaded with hidden sugars and unhealthy fats, the gastroenterologist warns. Pancakes: Pancakes are often a beloved breakfast option, especially in households with children. But these store-bought pancake mixes are not really fueling your body, but leading to rapid sugar spikes, which adversely affect your health. Donuts: Dr. Sethi calls donuts ‘sugar bombs’. Why? The body reacts to sugar spikes by producing insulin to lower blood glucose; however, this rapid change can leave one sluggish. Over time, these frequent sugar spikes and crashes may contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.
“These foods cause your blood sugar to spike first thing in the morning, then crash. This leaves you tired, hungry, and craving more junk food all day,” he adds.
What to eat instead?
- Eggs (packed with protein)
- Greek yogurt with berries
- Whole wheat pancakes, if you want pancakes
- Oatmeal with nuts
Dr. Sethi suggests starting the day with protein and fiber instead of sugar and processed ingredients. “Your energy will be steady, and you’ll naturally eat less throughout the day. Your morning sets the tone for everything else,” he reminds.
If you are looking to make your morning meal healthier, Dr. Sethi suggests adding “a handful of berries to whatever you’re eating for breakfast. They’re packed with antioxidants that fight inflammation!”Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or lifestyle.
