The Secret To Eating Like A Nutritionist

When the New Year rolls around, you may be looking to lead a healthier lifestyle or even revamp your entire diet. One of the most important things you can change about your diet, according to over 500 nutritionists, starts with eating a healthy breakfast.

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A recent survey conducted by Today's Dietitian magazine and commissioned by the Quaker Oats Center of Excellence found that 86 percent of registered dietitians agreed that eating a healthy breakfast is significant for maintaining a healthy weight. "The meal that starts your day literally 'breaks' your overnight 'fast," said Katherine Brooking, MS, RD, and co-founder of Appetite for Health. "Without it, you may fall prey to unwanted cravings and potentially making poor nutrition choices that could interfere with your healthy weight goals."

Eating something when you wake up is important to start your day off on the right foot and prevent you from reaching for unhealthy food throughout the day. At 41 percent, oatmeal was the top choice for breakfast amongst the 500 registered dietitians. "What you choose to eat for breakfast can give you a healthy boost — it's an opportunity to add fiber, nutrients and whole grains to your diet — making oatmeal the dietitian-preferred choice," Brooking said.

Making healthy changes to your life starts with a nutritious breakfast. How you begin your day will automatically influence your mood and attitude during the rest of the day. Opt for oatmeal, whole-grain waffles, bagels, and eggs for a high-fiber, high-protein option.