Everyone says that breakfast is the most important meal to start the day off on the right foot! Milk and dairy products are packed with protein, which makes them a logical, affordable choice to add to your morning meal. They provide nutrients—such as calcium, vitamins A, B12 and D, and riboflavin—which promote good health and, in part, lower blood pressure.
To make sure you have enough energy to start your day, here are some ways dairy products can give your breakfast a boost!
BREAKFAST: THE MOST IMPORTANT MEAL OF THE DAY
Nutrition experts keep saying that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Breakfast means “break the fast.” Your metabolism kicks in to bring your blood sugar levels back to normal, which improves your cognitive abilities, especially memory and concentration. It’s even better if your meal is balanced because you’ll be more alert and have enough energy to perform all your tasks for the day!
WHEN TO EAT
There’s no set rule. You don’t need to eat breakfast as soon as you wake up. It’s even better to wait until you’re hungry. This way you’re more in tune with your hunger and fullness cues. Taking breakfast with you may be a good option, especially if your morning routine is hectic.
Ideas for a quick breakfast:
- Vanilla, raspberry and almond butter protein smoothie (can be frozen)
- Protein-packed chocolate overnight oatmeal with seed crust and frozen fruit
- Protein choco-coffee drink (for busy mornings)
- Protein pudding with chia, homemade jam and granola
DAIRY PRODUCTS FOR BREAKFAST
Dairy products such as milk, cottage cheese and cheese are convenient and very easy to include in your breakfast. These products have undergone little to no processing and are versatile and affordable. Whether they’re in your cereal bowl, in your smoothies or on your toast, dairy products are always a good idea for creating a tasty breakfast that is balanced and high in protein.
PROTEIN AT BREAKFAST
The good thing about high-protein foods is that they are more satiating and reduce hunger more than foods that are high in sugar and fat. They’re complete proteins, meaning they contain all the amino acids the body needs to function properly. This is why it’s recommended that you eat 25 to 35 grams of protein per meal.
Ideas for a protein-packed breakfast
- Blueberry and raspberry marble protein smoothie
- Sheet pan chocolate protein pancakes
- Protein-packed breakfast sandwich
- Protein-packed baked French toast
LACTOSE INTOLERANCE
Even if you’re lactose intolerant, meaning you experience uncomfortable digestive symptoms due to an inability to digest lactose, you can still consume dairy products for breakfast. There’s now a huge selection of lactose-free dairy products in your grocery store’s refrigerated section. This way, you can still enjoy all the benefits without the compromise.
To learn more about lactose-free dairy products.
Our ideas for lactose-free protein-packed breakfasts