Healthy High-Protein Breakfasts

Healthy High-Protein Breakfasts
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Protein has a high satiety rating, meaning it makes you feel full longer. Eating a protein-rich breakfast may decrease food intake later in the day, reports Medical News Today on the conclusions from a 2008 study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition." Timing played a factor in the study, as eating high amount of protein for lunch or dinner did not have the same effect for satiety compared to a high-protein breakfast.

Eggs

One egg provides 6 to 7g of protein. Harvard Health Publications suggests eating an egg a day should be OK for most healthy people as long as you restrict saturated and trans fats in your diet. Egg whites contain all the protein, so adding egg whites to an egg will boost the protein intake without adding cholesterol. Prepare eggs with a variety of vegetables and fruit on the side for a filling, nutritious, low-fat, high-protein meal. You can also use egg substitute.

Dairy

Dairy products can play a role in a healthy high-protein breakfast. Low-fat milk, yogurt and cottage cheese are some options to use for lower-calorie breakfasts. Add fruit to a cup of low-fat cottage cheese or yogurt and sprinkle with some nuts, or top high-fiber cereal with fruit and low-fat milk. Greek yogurt is particularly high in protein compared to regular yogurt.

Lean Meats

Eating lean meats such as Canadian bacon, low-fat turkey, chicken, pork or beef for breakfast is a way to get a lot of protein in the morning. Eat the meats plain, or add them to eggs with vegetables for an omelet, or as a breakfast sandwich or wrap.

Smoothie

Smoothies can be a quick, nutritious breakfast. Add fresh or frozen fruit to start. Add low-fat milk, yogurt or milk alternative for a liquid base with some ice. Add a scoop of protein powder for additional protein. Greens, such as spinach or kale, nut butters or oatmeal are some other additions to increase the nutrition for a smoothie.

Leftovers

In her book, "Nancy Clark's Sports Nutrition Guideline Book," Nancy Clark recommends nontraditional foods for breakfast for those who do not like traditional breakfast foods. Leftovers for breakfast can be a high-protein alternative. Options such as pizza, Chinese food or making a simple sandwich with leftover meat, vegetables and whole-grain bread are high-protein options.

References

Article reviewed by Elizabeth Ahders Last updated on: Jan 19, 2011

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