How to Get 30 Grams of Protein for Breakfast
Power Up Your Mornings with 30 Grams of Protein for Breakfast
As they say, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And what better way to start your day than with a protein-packed breakfast that will fuel your body and keep you energized?
One easy way to get a healthy dose of protein in the morning is to aim for at least 30 grams in your breakfast. This can be a challenge for some people, especially if you’re used to reaching for cereal or toast which are much lower in protein. However, there are plenty of delicious, high-protein breakfast ideas out there that can help you hit that 30-gram mark to kick start your protein intake for the day.
In this blog post, we will talk about the benefits of consuming 30 grams of protein for breakfast and provide you with quick and easy high-protein breakfast ideas.
Why is Protein Important for Breakfast?
Protein is an essential nutrient that is necessary for building lean muscle mass and repairing tissues in our body. It is also responsible for the growth and maintenance of muscles, bones, and skin. When we consume protein, our body breaks it down into amino acids, which are then used to build and repair tissues.
Consuming protein for breakfast is especially important because of its ability to keep us feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time. This is because protein takes longer to digest compared to other macronutrients. By including protein in our breakfast, we can make sure we are feeling full and satisfied for longer.
When we eat breakfast, we are breaking the fast that our body has been in since the previous night’s dinner. By consuming protein for breakfast, we are giving our body the nutrients it needs to start the day off right.
Benefits of Consuming 30 Grams of Protein
Research has shown that consuming 30 g protein for breakfast can have numerous benefits for our health and well being. One study found that consuming a high-protein breakfast can help to reduce cravings, increase feelings of fullness, and improve overall diet quality. [Source: University of Arkansas System]
Another study found that consuming a high-protein breakfast can help to reduce body weight, decrease body fat mass, and improve blood sugar control. This is because protein has a higher thermic effect than carbohydrates or fats, which means that our body burns more calories digesting protein than other macronutrient. [Source: Healthline]
How to Get 30 grams of Protein for Breakfast
Now that we know why protein is important for breakfast and the benefits of consuming 30 grams of protein, let’s explore how we can get 30 grams of protein for breakfast.
One of the easiest ways to get 30 grams of protein for breakfast is to incorporate protein-rich foods such as eggs, Greek yogurt, and protein powder into your breakfast rotation. For example, a serving of Greek yogurt with some berries and almonds can provide you with up to 20 grams of protein. Adding a scoop of protein powder to your oatmeal or smoothie can also help you reach your protein goals.
Another way to get 30 grams of protein for breakfast is to combine different protein sources. For example, a breakfast sandwich with eggs, cheese, and turkey bacon can provide you with up to 30 grams of protein. A veggie omelet with some cheese and a side of turkey sausage can also help you reach your protein goals.
High-Protein Breakfast Foods
When crafting your breakfast, it’s beneficial to have an arsenal of high-protein simple ingredients at your fingertips. Incorporating these into your morning routine can easily help you reach that 30-gram protein mark:
- Whole Eggs: A versatile breakfast staple, one large egg has about 6 grams of protein. Whether scrambled, poached, boiled, or fried, eggs are an excellent protein source.
- Greek Yogurt: This creamy delight not only provides a rich taste but also packs about 15-20 grams of protein per cup.
- Cottage Cheese: With approximately 28 grams of protein in one cup, cottage cheese is a great source of protein to use as a base for fruit, nuts, or even savory toppings like avocado and tomato. It can also blend in to many dishes if you are not a fan of the texture.
- Quinoa: Often considered a grain, this seed contains 8 grams of protein per cup when cooked, making it a great alternative to oatmeal for a new breakfast idea.
- Chia Seeds: Add to smoothies, yogurt, or make chia seed pudding. These tiny seeds offer about 5 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons.
- Almonds: A handful of almonds (approximately 23) provides 6 grams of protein.
- Tofu: An excellent source of plant-based protein, with roughly 10 grams of protein per half-cup.
- Tempeh: Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh contains about 15 grams of protein per 3 ounces.
- Protein Powder: Available in various flavors and types, including whey, plant-based, and casein. They can pack anywhere from 15 to 25 grams of protein per scoop.
- Chicken or Turkey Sausage: A leaner meat option than traditional pork sausage, these can have between 14-20 grams of protein per serving.
- Canadian Bacon: With about 12 grams of protein in 3 slices, it’s a lean and savory option for your breakfasts.
- Black Beans: These legumes offer about 8 grams of protein per half-cup and can be a delicious addition to breakfast burritos or hashes.
- Cheese: Depending on the type, you get around 7 grams of protein from one slice of cheese. It can be melted into omelets, sprinkled over hashes, or eaten as is.
- Milk (Including Plant-Based Varieties): Milk can provide around 8 grams of protein per cup. If you’re lactose-intolerant or vegan, soy milk is a great alternative, offering similar protein content.
- Peanut or Almond Butter: Spread on toast or drizzle over fruit or yogurt; these butters contain about 8 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons.
- Lentils: Often overlooked for breakfast, cooked lentils pack about 9 grams of protein per half-cup and can be a unique base for savory breakfast bowls.
- Hemp Seeds: These seeds can be sprinkled over any breakfast dish, offering around 10 grams of protein in 3 tablespoons.
- Whole Grains (like oats, oat bran, or barley): Though they’re more carb-heavy, they also offer protein. For instance, one cup of cooked oatmeal offers about 6 grams of protein and 1/3 cup of uncooked oat bran has 7 grams of protein.
- Sardines: They might be an unusual breakfast food, but sardines are rich in protein. One small can provides about 23 grams of protein.
When building your breakfast, try mixing and matching these protein-rich foods to create a meal that’s both tasty and satiating. Remember, the key is variety; this way, you’re less likely to tire of the same foods and more likely to meet your protein goals consistently.
Protein for Breakfast Tips and Tricks
Getting 30 grams of protein for breakfast may seem overwhelming or unattainable, but with a little planning and preparation, it can be easily achievable. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started:
Quick and Easy High-protein Breakfast Ideas
Now that we know how to get 30 grams of protein for breakfast, let’s explore some quick and easy high-protein breakfast ideas:
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt, berries, chia seeds and nuts for a tasty and protein-packed breakfast.
- Scrambled Eggs with Avocado: Scramble some eggs and top with sliced avocado for a delicious and filling breakfast.
- Protein Smoothie: Blend together some protein powder, almond milk, and fruit for a quick and easy breakfast on the go.
- Breakfast Burrito: Fill a whole wheat tortilla with scrambled eggs, black beans, and cheese for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Protein Pancakes: Mix together some egg whites, greek yogurt, and oats to make a delicious and healthy pancake batter. Top with peanut butter and maple syrup for some extra fat to balance the dish.
- Breakfast Sandwich: Make a high-protein breakfast sandwich made with a whole-grain English muffin, scrambled eggs, and Canadian bacon. Serve with fresh fruit to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
- Egg & Spinach Protein Bowl: Begin with a base of sautéed spinach in garlic and olive oil. Add 3 halved hard-boiled eggs, ½ cup of roasted chickpeas, and slices from a small avocado. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of lemon juice or dressing. Optional: garnish with feta or hemp seeds for an extra protein boost. This bowl provides around 30 grams of protein.
19 Protein Breakfast Recipe Ideas
01
Steak and Eggs
This protein packed breakfast is hearty, healthy and sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites! Make this on a weekend before an adventure and stay full until lunch rolls around.
Photo Credit: Healthy Recipes 101
02
Chocolate Chip Protein Muffins
This delicious grab and go breakfast has 31 grams of protein! These are awesome as a meal prep option. Grab one for breakfast, or pack one for an afternoon snack to hold you over until dinner.
Photo Credit: Protein Cakery
03
Savory Baked Oatmeal
Oatmeal is always a great breakfast option, but this recipe adds meat into the mix for a hearty, wholesome dish. This protein packed meal is perfect for cold weather months when you need stick to the ribs dishes to sustain you until lunch.
Photo Credit: Summer Yule
04
High Protein Overnight Oats
This overnight oatmeal recipe packs over 38 grams of protein into such a delicious package. This breakfast will energize you for the day ahead. This recipe offers five flavors to try, so you won’t have to repeat the same meal, two days in a row.
Photo Credit: The Foodie Physician
05
Almond Joy Overnight Oats
This recipe needs no cook time, is protein packed, and tastes just like an almond joy bar. Make this for a decadent breakfast that is filled with good for you ingredients like coconut yogurt, almonds and oats.
Photo Credit: A Paige of Positivity
06
high Protein French Toast
Make a batch of french toast with added protein for a breakfast worthy of hopping out of bed for! This recipe is easy, delicious and sure to be a family favorite.
Photo Credit: Bless This Meal
07
Chicken and Waffle Casserole
Make a casserole of chicken and waffles for an indulgent start to the day that you can enjoy any day of the week. Everyone will love the way this easy dish tastes!
Photo Credit: A Paige of Positivity
08
Sweet Potato Breakfast Bake
This breakfast bake has a little bit of everything in it! Eggs, sweet potatoes and turkey sausage for a protein packed breakfast that is as tasty as it is healthy.
Photo Credit: Healthy Mom Healthy Family
9
Breakfast Nachos
This protein packed breakfast is low calorie and perfect for those mornings you couldn’t look at a sweet breakfast. Make this cottage cheese bowl for a fast and filling option that you can customize with your favorite veggies.
Photo Credit: Sense and Edibility
10
Savory Cottage Cheese Bowls
This protein packed breakfast is low calorie and perfect for those mornings you couldn’t look at a sweet breakfast. Make this cottage cheese bowl for a fast and filling option that you can customize with your favorite veggies.
Photo Credit: Through the Fibro Fog
11
Protein Packed Pancakes
This meal prep idea packs so much protein into fluffy pancakes.Make a batch to enjoy the flavor every day of the week, and all you will need to do is pop them in the microwave and grab a fork.
Photo Credit: I Hate Meal Prep
12
Full English Breakfast
This full English style breakfast cooks in an electric skillet for a fuss free meal that needs very little clean up time. This is perfect for those mornings you need protein to fuel your body until lunch rolls around.
Photo Credit: In the Kitch
13
Denver Omelette
This protein packed omelet has meat, cheese and plenty of veggies to offer a wholesome, hearty meal that pairs well with toast or a fruit salad.
Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate
14
Chorizo Breakfast Hash
This hash is just the thing to make for a deliciously hearty start to the day. It has crispy potatoes, kale and spicy chorizo with an egg on top. I know you are going to love this medley of flavors!
Photo Credit: Life as a Strawberry
15
Snickers Cheesecake Overnight Oats
This breakfast tastes like a decadent dessert, but it is pure and simple nourishment in every bite. With cheesecake and candy flavors, you wouldn’t expect this breakfast to have so much protein, but you are going to be full after a serving of this!
Photo Credit: Pure and Simple Nourishments
16
Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats
This overnight oat recipe is packed with chocolate flavor and protein. This healthy breakfast idea is easy and healthy for the ultimate first meal of the day!
Photo Credit: Strength and Sunshine
17
Venison Gravy
This is just as tasty as sausage gravy, but a little bit healthier! It is loaded with protein thanks to the venison meat and has the creamiest gravy base. Serve this over biscuits or potatoes for a great meal.
Photo Credit: 24 Bite
18
Passion Fruit Smoothies
Start the day off on a tropical vibe with this protein packed smoothie. It has the best passion fruit flavor and comes together so easily for a busy morning meal on the go.
Photo Credit: The Healthful Ideas
19
Bacon and Asparagus Frittata
Asparagus and bacon are perfect partners to make a hearty and wholesome breakfast that everyone will love. Sprinkle cheese over the top for added flavors if you like.
Photo Credit: Living Lou
Is Protein for Breakfast Worth it?
Consuming 30 grams of protein for breakfast is a great way to improve your health and wellbeing. By incorporating protein-rich foods and meal prepping ahead of time, you can easily hit your protein goals and start your day off right. We hope you can power up your mornings with these delicious 30 grams of protein breakfast ideas and feel the difference in your day!