Experts have claimed that a traditional fry-up trumps modern breakfast options like granola, fruity yoghurt, and cereal bars when it comes to health benefits. Packed with protein, vitamins, and nutrients, the beloved full English keeps you satiated for longer and is even beneficial for your brain, according to research.
In contrast, popular “healthy” and “low-fat” quick breakfasts are often loaded with sugar, corn syrup, and fruit juice concentrate. These simple carbs may give an immediate energy spike but can lead to a later slump in energy and cravings for more unhealthy snacks. Researchers have discovered that a hearty cooked breakfast includes complex carbohydrates and healthy fats that provide sustained energy throughout the day.
A well-balanced fry-up could tally up to just 600 calories, which is about a quarter of the recommended daily calorie intake for an adult. However, some of the best-selling fruit and yoghurt bars pack as much as 220 calories each, meaning that consuming just three could surpass the calorie count of a plate filled with eggs, bacon, and sausage, reports the Daily Star.
The study, conducted by Catered Ski Chalet Holidays | Ski Vertigo, cautions Britons against being misled by breakfast products that are high in sugar and simple carbs yet labelled as “healthy”. The report advised: “To fuel your body properly, the key is balancing macronutrients – protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.
“A breakfast rich in these nutrients stabilises your blood sugar and keeps you full longer.”
This approach not only boosts energy levels but also aids in weight control and mental performance. The report added: “Experts at Ski Vertigo, who specialise in providing balanced, nourishing meals at their full-service chalets, warn that a seemingly innocent choice could be a recipe for disaster, affecting energy, digestion and even long-term wellness.
“Think granola bars, fruit-flavoured yoghurts and even some cereals boasting ‘low-fat’ or ‘organic’ labels. While these options might seem like smart choices, they can lead to a quick spike in blood sugar followed by an inevitable crash.
“This rollercoaster not only leaves you feeling sluggish but also primes your body for cravings and over-eating later in the day.”
English Breakfast Society chairman Guise Bule de Missenden said: “We have long advocated for the nutritional merits of the traditional English breakfast. A well-prepared English breakfast provides anyone who needs real energy to sustain them throughout the day with healthy fats and complex carbohydrates, contributing to sustained energy release and satiety.
“Assuming unprocessed quality British ingredients are the core components, the English breakfast can be quite healthy when eaten in moderation.”