We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it’s true. What you eat for breakfast can make or break your diet for the rest of the day. This first meal of the day kick-starts your metabolism, helping you burn more calories and fat; it also “breaks the fast,” taking your body out of a catabolic state and preparing it for the day ahead. What’s more, having a breakfast with the right mix of carbs and protein will help you get the best results from your workout.
If you’re skipping breakfast, stop. Skipping this important meal can lead to overeating at lunch and dinner, which can lead to unwanted weight gain. So if you usually munch on a donut with your coffee or skip breakfast altogether, this list is for you. We present to you this list of the best breakfast foods for men.
- Oatmeal.
Oatmeal is considered a “superfood” due to its high fiber content. Fiber, which is typically found in whole grains like oats, has been linked to a number of health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease and high cholesterol. Another benefit of fiber: It promotes satiety, so you feel fuller longer and don’t overeat.
- Whole grain cereals.
Skip the marshmallows, chocolate, and other sweets. When it comes to breakfast cereals, look for whole grains with no added sugar. Whole grains will provide you with heart-healthy fiber (see #1). You can add some healthy fruits like bananas or berries to them to satisfy your sweet tooth. Also, look for protein-rich cereals whenever possible. These cereals provide a good amount of protein that your body needs for muscle growth.
- Eggs.
While there is still some debate about whether the cholesterol in eggs is bad for your health, one or two eggs won’t do you any harm. In fact, eggs are one of the best sources of protein for men. Eggs contain all the essential amino acids that the body needs to stimulate muscle growth. This powerhouse food is also rich in choline, which is crucial for brain function. If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels, you can eat only egg whites; they retain most of the protein while removing most of the fat and cholesterol.
- Green tea.
Replace your morning cup of coffee or orange juice with green tea to reap the benefits of antioxidants. The variety of antioxidants found in green tea has a number of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and increased calorie burning. Because of green tea’s thermogenic (fat-burning) effects on the body, your metabolism speeds up and you burn more calories.
- Waffles.
No, we’re not talking about those huge Belgian waffles topped with syrup, whipped cream, and other sweet concoctions. We’re talking about the small, whole-grain type you can find in the freezer section of your local grocery store. These waffles are convenient and healthy — in moderation. They’re typically low in calories and contain a number of important nutrients, including iron. But as we mentioned earlier, don’t douse them in syrup; Use fruits or berries to boost their antioxidant content.
- Yogurt.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat that won’t ruin your diet, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything better than this nutrient-dense powerhouse. Available in a variety of flavors and sizes, yogurt is a healthy food that’s great any time of day, not just for breakfast. Still, it’s a breakfast staple for many Americans. Why? Well, for one thing, it contains probiotics, which promote good digestion, among other things. It’s also a good source of casein protein, a slow-digesting protein that helps fuel your muscles throughout the day. Plain yogurt (add fruit for flavor) and “light” yogurts are best.
- Whey protein shake.
If you’re in a rush, a whey protein shake can provide your body with the necessary carbohydrates and protein to keep you going until your next meal. Whey protein powders for men are generally low in calories, so they fit easily into any healthy diet. In addition to whey protein, you should also take other sports nutrition supplements for men, such as creatine. If you exercise regularly, consider pre- and post-workout supplements for men to get the most out of each workout.
- Multivitamins.
This isn’t so much a food as it is a supplement. Either way, consider taking one with breakfast each day. Multivitamins for men can help fill in any gaps your diet may not be covering. Even with the healthiest breakfast, there are some nutrients you’re probably not getting. That’s where multivitamins for men come in.
