Breakfast should provide energy. However, this is not always the case: A look at European plates.
A good start to the day begins with energy. A healthy breakfast plays a crucial role in this. However, breakfast habits vary significantly from region to region, which also affects the nutritional content. Let’s take a look at the plates of Europeans.
Caloric content of popular breakfast classics
Different amounts of sugar, fruit, and vegetables can also be seen from the CIQUAL 2020 table of the French agency “anses” for food, environment, and occupational health. According to this, sweet breakfasts are popular in France. A typical French breakfast consists of baguette, croissant, strawberry jam, butter, and orange juice, providing an average of up to 875 kcal. However, due to its high fat and sugar content, it is often less healthy.
The British prefer a hearty breakfast. An English breakfast with sausages, bacon, eggs, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and buttered toast averages 739 kcal. It is rich in protein but low in fat and fiber, making it rather unbalanced.
In Germany, baked goods are very popular for breakfast. Bread or rolls, along with cold cuts, jam, and boiled eggs. A classic like ham sandwich is also often found on the breakfast table. However, it provides only about 340 kcal, offering little energy for the day.
The perfect breakfast: What matters?
Regional and personal preferences play a role in choosing breakfast, but the basic rules of healthy eating should be observed. Because generally, the mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats ensures optimal nutrient supply.
Foods with complex carbohydrates are suitable. These are digested more slowly and therefore provide longer-lasting energy. Protein-rich foods are good for muscle building and promote a feeling of satiety. Healthy fats are important for cell function and also provide energy. Fiber provides long-lasting satiety and supports digestion.
