Eating a healthy breakfast has long been touted as one of the best ways to help improve your health, lose weight and help avoid many life-threatening diseases. In many ways, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  However, many people are unaware of what constitutes a "good" breakfast.  What can you eat to help you increase your energy levels, decrease hunger throughout the day and improve your health?

First, consider starting your day with good carbs.  Carbs have taken a tremendous beating in today’s society; however, good carbs can give you the long-lasting energy that you need to make it through the day without snacking.  Consider having a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast, or choose another source of healthy carbohydrates each day.  Healthy carbs provide you with a long-lasting, slow-digesting source of energy.

Next, you need to provide a fast-acting source of protein.  Protein (amino acids) is essential to your body and the key to growing strong muscles and bones.  Eggs are a good source of protein.  Whey protein is also an excellent option and can be combined with fresh fruit to make a powerful shake that will help you get through the day.

Of course, you should also enjoy fresh fruit in the mornings.  This provides you with a rush of natural sugars to jumpstart your energy levels, as well as vital nutrients and minerals.  Remember, an apple can provide more energy than a cup of coffee and you won’t suffer the "jitters" or the crash that caffeine induces.

How many calories should constitute your breakfast?  Ideally, you should keep your breakfast to about 600 calories per day. When you combine a source of protein, with slow-burning carbs and the energy potential of fruit, you’ll find that you don’t suffer hunger pangs, have better concentration and can increase your energy levels considerably.