Why Breakfast IS So Important For Women

There are things we can add or include in our diets to support our cycle. But the big thing we want to talk about this month is fuelling ourselves in general.

Many women are under-eating, coffee before breakfast or even no breakfast and to those women who don't feel hungry this is actually part of the issue.

When you eat enough protein, fibre, healthy fats, and carbohydrates throughout the day, and particularly at breakfast time, your blood sugar stays more stable and cortisol follows its natural rhythm which is higher in the morning and gradually declining as the day goes on - signalling melatonin to rise, making you tired and ready for a good night sleep. This supports healthy sex hormone production.

Breakfast Signals Safety 

If you’re getting a good breakfast in, then the body doesn't need to keep producing stress hormones to maintain blood sugar and oestrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormones receive stronger support.

When you skip breakfast cortisol remains elevated longer because the body needs to mobilise stored energy to keep blood glucose available. The body is prioritising survival and blood sugar regulation. 

Therefore sex hormone production becomes less of a priority. Over time this can contribute to irregular cycles, PMS symptoms, reduced ovulation quality fatigues and poorer thyroid conversion in susceptible women.

Some Breakfast Ideas:

• Eggs on sourdough with avocado and spinach
• Greek yoghurt with berries, chia seeds, and nuts
• Protein smoothie with berries, spinach, flaxseed, and protein powder
• Overnight oats with protein powder, cinnamon, and walnuts
• Leftover dinner  - Hannah's Favourte (yes, breakfast doesn't have to be "breakfast food"!)