We’ve all heard it a million times: “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day”. This is because it is! Even more important though is what you choose to eat to start your day. A breakfast that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates helps you lose (and control) your weight, it keeps you energized and feeling full for longer, resulting in overall calorie reduction.
Sounds like something we would want to do everyday, right? Truth is many of us skimp on this very important meal for many different reasons.
~Some say that they are simply not hungry in the morning and would prefer to save their calorie intake for later in the day. Unfortunately with this logic we are just extending a long fast from dinner the night before. Once we wake up our bodies need to be refueled.
~We don’t have the time or desire to make the time to prepare a meal. Getting out of bed 10 minutes earlier for some is just not an option. The result is that we grab a cup of coffee and a quick something that is high in carbohydrates and low in protein as we run out the door.
Planning is the key for the busy lifestyles most of us lead. If you don’t have time to cook a healthy breakfast, which would be the obvious choice, you would be wise to come up with a good protein rich, low carbohydrate Plan B.
Try some of these easy and delicious breakfast ideas.
1. High Protein Cereal with Almond Milk
Most breakfast cereals are loaded with sugar and carbohydrates and contain zero protein. Although there are many options for healthy cereals, the best choice for those who are on a weight loss plan would be to choose a low carb/high protein cereal that also contains fiber. Flavor options vary from Cinnamon Vanilla, Rich Cocoa, Honey Nut, Chocolate Peanut Butter, & Mixed Berry, just to name a few. Getting protein for breakfast can be tasty and easy.
2. Protein Powered Oatmeal
A hearty bowl of oatmeal fortified with protein is a very satisfying breakfast option. Choose from the many flavors of protein rich oatmeal with 15 grams of protein and very low in net carbs or make your own protein packed version. Start with a packet of Classic Oatmeal, throw in some additional protein powder, and top it off with a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter.
3. Protein Pancakes
Up until recently the words Pancakes and High Protein never seemed to fit in the same sentence. Now with the many Protein Pancake Mixes on the market we can have the best of both worlds. For those on a weight loss program, we have our easy to make high protein pancake mix, which will allow you to enjoy your pancake in minutes. We suggest for added protein and taste, top the pancake with your favorite nut butter or simply top it with a sugar free maple syrup. You won’t feel you are depriving yourself for sure.
4. Smoothies & Shakes
It really doesn’t get much easier to make breakfast on the run. By mixing protein powder and water or almond milk into a blender you have a basic protein breakfast. With the many protein powders available on the market, the flavor choices are endless. If on a weight loss program you will want to look for a low carbohydrate, low sugar, and high protein powder. Be creative and add extra ingredients such as nut butters and spinach for additional healthy fats and vitamins. Many people say that depending on the ingredients in the smoothie the added spinach is tasteless when mixed together.
5. Protein Bar
A favorite “Go To “ option for many people as they are running out the door. With the many protein bars available on the market today, we fortunately have many options to choose from that can work with many different weight loss programs, you just need to read the labels. Optimally you should choose a bar that provides you at least 15 grams of protein. Bars that have high fiber content are great options, especially for dieters who are on maintenance. There are many great tasting new protein bars on the market. Try buying a sample/variety pack to find your new favorite.
As you can see, eating a breakfast high in protein isn’t hard, especially when you have the many product options available to purchase online. All it takes is a little planning. For a variety, try a different breakfast every morning and to start enjoying your weight-loss journey.