It can be confusing to navigate PCOS breakfast ideas. Opinions on whether or not breakfast is the most important meal of the day may differ. However, one thing is certain. What you start out eating each day can truly set the tone for remaining meals and cravings.
Carbohydrates And PCOS
If you have been told to avoid carbs with PCOS, as they spike your blood sugar, this is only partly true. Simple carbohydrate foods, which are typically more processed (think white bread, added sugars, pastries, fruit juices and refined cereals) are digested quickly. They cause your blood sugar to rise and drop. As a result, you feel hungrier soon after eating these foods. On the other hand, whole grain carbohydrates and those from fruit, vegetables, beans and dairy tend to be released into your blood stream more gradually.
Regardless of what carbohydrate foods you choose, partnering those foods with a lean protein, healthy fat and fiber slows down digestion, leading to a more steady release into your blood sugar. You stay full for longer, and should have fewer cravings for high sugar foods and snacks later in the day.
PCOS Breakfast Ideas
Some great examples of this combo are:
- Veggie Egg Bites with Whole Grain Toast
- Plain Greek Yogurt with mixed berries
- Boiled egg and whole grain English muffin
- Toasted whole grain bread spread with avocado and sprinkled with sunflower seeds
- Whole oats topped with walnuts, ground flax seeds, cinnamon and mixed berries
Most important, experiment and stay mindful of how you feel immediately after you eat and throughout the day. It’s all about finding a combo that works best for you!
