Following a gluten free diet, breakfast can sometimes be a challenging meal. Cereals and toast, if you find a gluten free option, can often be low in fibre and protein. What type of breakfast do you have?

Is your breakfast carb based? In the morning simple carbohydrates  such as sugary refined cereals, white breads, toasts, etc cause an immediate surge of blood sugar level which results in a substantial emission of insulin. The insulin removes sugar from blood turning its excess into fat. The result is a decreased level of blood sugar, and thirst for more carbs. This cycle repeats itself 2-3 more times during the day. This vicious circle constitutes one of the major reasons for diabetes, high blood pressure and extra weight.

Or do you skip brekfast? – When you skip breakfast, blood sugar drops below the normal level, you experience cravings and a drop of energy. You again revert to snacking on simple carbohydrates foods to achieve a quick surge of blood sugar and to overcome hunger and a drop of energy. The insulin removes sugar from blood turning its excess into fat. The body, now low in blood sugar, experiences further cravings and a drop in energy. This vicious cycle constitutes one of the major reasons for diabetes, high blood pressure and extra weight.

The alternative  – a balanced healthy breakfast. Such a breakfast supplies our body with all vital nutrients and energy without increasing blood sugar and insulin levels. It helps to avoid dependence on carbs during the day. In this way appetite stays under control, cravings for carb based foods (snacks, chocolate, pastry, junk, soft drinks, etc) diminish and the body uses its own stored fats to get more energy.

Herbalife nutritional shakes combine complex carbohydrates with lean protein, fibre and nutrients to sustain you for longer without needing to snack.  Herbalife have recently introduced a gluten free, dairy free and soy free shake so every one can now benefit from these nutritional shakes.