Eating a healthy breakfast is important for weight loss and overall wellness. A high-protein meal can help you feel full and energized for longer.
Protein is one of the three macronutrients that your body needs to function properly. It also helps keep your blood sugar levels stable and supports muscle health.
Eggs
Eggs are an inexpensive source of protein and are a great choice for those on low-calorie diets. They are easy to prepare and provide a variety of flavors.
They are high in potassium, choline and vitamin A, as well. They are also a good source of iron and zinc.
One medium egg contains 5.4 grams of protein. Another large egg contains 6.3 grams of protein and a jumbo egg has 7.9 grams.
Egg whites are even more protein-packed than whole eggs. A single egg white has 3.6 grams of protein and only 38 calories.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a nutrient-dense food that can provide a lot of protein in the morning. It’s also a great source of calcium, Vitamin D and potassium.
Yogurts are made by combining heated milk with bacteria called Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, which convert the sugar in milk to lactic acid that thickens the milk and gives it its tart flavor.
Moreover, research suggests that yogurt can help improve appetite management and delay feelings of hunger. In addition, it can help reduce glycemic variability in blood sugar levels, says Jennifer Romano, MS, RD, CDE, founder of the Nutritional Coaching Institute.
If you’re trying to build muscle, consider adding yogurt to your meal plan for a boost of protein. It can also help you feel fuller for longer.
Nuts
Nuts are rich sources of energy, proteins, and essential micronutrients that promote good health. They also provide large amounts of folate, a B-vitamin important for the normal development and functioning of all cells, as well as antioxidant vitamins (e.g., tocopherols) and phenolic compounds, which are important for the prevention of oxidative stress and for detoxification of homocysteine, a sulfur-containing amino acid with atherothrombotic properties.
Nut consumption has been shown to decrease total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. The effect is dose-related, similar across genders and age groups, and independent of the type of nut tested. In addition, there has been an inverse association with the risk of diabetes. Studies have also linked nut consumption with improved inflammatory status, as assessed by a variety of biomarkers.
Whole-Grain Options
When it comes to healthy breakfasts, whole-grain options are a great place to start. They abound with heart-healthy fiber that can help control appetite and regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
For an even more filling, nutrient-dense meal, add protein from dairy, yogurt, eggs or meat. Eggs are a no-brainer, but they are also available in other breakfast options, like scrambled, poached, fried or hard-boiled.
You can also find whole grains in the dining commons, including rice and quinoa. These are delicious and versatile, and can be used in soups, risottos or veggie burgers for a hearty breakfast that will keep you full all day long.
Waffles or Pancakes
Waffles and pancakes are two of the most popular breakfast foods. They can be made with different batters and served savory or sweet.
Typically, they are made with the same ingredients such as flour, eggs, milk and butter. However, the batters for waffles are thicker than that of pancakes which helps them to hold their shape better.
They also contain more sugar to create that crispy outer layer of the waffle.
As a result, they have 20 percent more calories than pancakes. However, it is possible to make both of these delicious breakfasts a little healthier by replacing the ingredients or using healthy toppings.