Why Pizza for Breakfast is Better than Most Cereals
It’s the most important meal of the day—and we all know it. Yet, most people don’t take time in the morning to cook themselves a delicious or nutritious option. In fact if you’re like most people, you grab a box of sugary cereal, pour a large portion, and call it good. But did you know that there are healtier options awaiting you that can take the same amount of time to make?
It’s important to make the most of breakfast time so we’ll fill you in on a little secret. That cold slice sitting in the fridge is likely a smarter breakfast choice than your huge bowl of ceral. Yes, really! So if you’re looking for a more nutritious way to start off your day, keep reading.
Pizza vs. Cereal
“You may be surprised to find out that an average slice of pizza and a bowl of cereal with whole milk contain nearly the same amount of calories. However, pizza packs a much larger protein punch, which will keep you full and boost satiety throughout the morning.” Chelsey Amer, a private practice nutritionist based in New York City, told USA TODAY. The average cereal will provide a few grams of protein and fiber, but often have a large amount of sugar and calories. Once you add milk to your cereal—and account for the fact that you often pour far more than the suggested serving size— you’re looking at a whole lot of things your body doesn’t need!
On the other side of the coin, pizza’s basic ingredients include mozzarella cheese for a good source of protein and calcium as well as tomato sauce for a good source of vitamins A and C. It offers both a quick energy boost from the carbohydrates and lasting energy from the protein and fiber. And if your pizza includes additional toppings like meat or veggies, there’s also added nutritious value.
Now, don’t get us wrong. Pizza is probably not the healthiest breakfast option out there—and it isn’t better for you than every single cereal on the shelf. But you can eat a slice for your first meal of the day here and there knowing you’re likely consuming something for breakfast that has healthy features. Plus if pizza becomes your new household breakfast staple, are you really going to complain?
So forget the Lucky Charms! Instead, reach for that leftover pizza in your fridge. You were probably thinking about it when you woke up, right? Throw it in the toaster oven, reheat it in the microwave, or eat it cold for breakfast—it doesn’t matter. Your morning slice will be sure to boost your energy and mood to start your day off right. Especially if you ordered your tasty pie from your favorite pizza place, Sam & Louie’s!
