We’ve all heard it said before, but it bears repeating – breakfast really is the most important meal of the day.
With it’s ability to keep you feeling full longer, prompting you to eat less throughout the day and regulating your blood sugar, eating a healthy breakfast has a huge impact on your health!
Studies have shown that increased consumption of protein at breakfast can make an even bigger impact on our health and our waistlines. Heather Leidy, an assistant professor of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology at the University of Missouri, studied hunger sensations in people who had eaten 40 grams of protein at breakfast versus only 18 grams of protein. The group who ate the higher amount of protein reported decreased hunger throughout the entire day.
A high protein breakfast can help you feel less hungry, snack less, have improved workouts and increase your energy levels.
Here are 9 high protein breakfast ideas that can keep you fuller for longer:
Superfood Protein Oatmeal
Heart-healthy fiber, protein and amino acids come together to give you one power packed breakfast with this Superfood Protein Oatmeal! The key is the addition of quinoa, which adds nutrients and depth of flavor to this comforting breakfast. This breakfast is vegan and gluten free, so everyone can enjoy it. Add your favorite toppings – the potential combinations are endless!
Baked Breakfast Cookie
A cookie for breakfast? Yes please! This protein packed breakfast includes oats, protein powder, nut butter and uses banana as a natural sweetener. Pair with a warm mug of coffee or tea and you’ll feel like you are having a special treat for breakfast.These easily freeze and travel to work/ school wonderfully.
Fall Harvest Breakfast Salad
If you’ve never had a salad for breakfast, now is the time! Get your greens in for the day with this delightful and satisfying breakfast salad! Flavors of cinnamon and apple pair perfectly with a bed of leafy greens. Top this salad with a fried egg for a boost of breakfast protein.
Quinoa Breakfast Bars
These breakfast bars are packed with healthy fat and fiber, making them the perfect grab-and-go morning meal! Prep a large batch on the weekend and freeze in individual portions for a protein treat the whole family will enjoy. This is also the perfect solution for any leftover quinoa you have on hand.
Pinto Bean Tofu Breakfast Rancheros
The combination of tofu and beans in this recipe gives you more than 18 grams of protein per serving! This is the perfect pre-workout meal and will help fuel you throughout the day. Treat yourself and enjoy this savory and satisfying breakfast.
Flourless Chocolate Zucchini Muffins
There’s nothing wrong with a little chocolate for breakfast, especially if it includes an entire cup of shredded zucchini! These muffins are gluten free and combine almond butter, bananas, zucchini and cocoa powder to form a protein-filled snack. Pair a muffin with a hard boiled egg and side of fruit for the perfect breakfast.
Coconut Almond Protein Shake
Smoothies and shakes are a great way to pack a lot of nutritional and protein power into a meal. Wake up in the morning and immediately feel like you’ve headed to a tropical island with this coconut almond protein shake! Almonds, vanilla protein powder and coconut combine for a delicious breakfast shake.
Avocado, Spinach and Chevre Scramble
It’s hard to find anything more filling than eggs in the morning. Add spinach and goat cheese and you have a nutrient dense and Paleo breakfast that is good for your brain and your heart! Add variety by changing the cheese and veggies and you will never get bored of this one!
Yogurt-Filled Cantaloupe
Add a pop of color and a boost of vitamins by serving your traditional yogurt in a cantaloupe bowl! Yogurt is traditionally high in protein, but make sure you go for plain and organic and avoid added sugars. Top with nuts or additional fruit and enjoy!
Featured photo credit: Breakfast is Ready via picjumbo.com
