11 High-Protein Breakfast Recipes You Should Make This Spring For Weight Loss Over 40: Tofu Scramble & More

Spring is the perfect time to rejuvenate your breakfast routine, and incorporating high-protein options can be a game-changer, especially for those over 40 aiming for weight loss. High-protein breakfasts not only provide essential nutrients to kick-start your day but also help keep you feeling satisfied and energized throughout the morning.

We checked in with McKenzie Jones, registered dietitian nutritionist for nutribullet; Carolina Schneider, MS, RD, and Daily Harvest’s in-house nutrition advisor; Krutika Nanavati, RD and nutritionist; dietitian Michelle Saari, MSc, from EHealth project; nutritionist Lisa Richards, creator of The Candida Diet; Trista Best, dietitian for Balance One Supplements; Dr. Alex Foxman, MD, FACP, ABOM; and Alex Evink, MS, RD, to learn about 11 of the best high-protein breakfasts to start eating for weight loss over 40 this spring. They revealed that some of the best options are tofu scramble, protein pancakes, beans, and more! Read on to discover all of them and why they’re so great for weight loss.

1. Tofu Scramble

Tofu scrambles are a nutritious and delicious option for those seeking a low-calorie, high-protein breakfast. Tofu, derived from soybeans, serves as a versatile and plant-based alternative to traditional scrambled eggs. It is naturally low in calories while being rich in protein, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking to boost their protein intake without compromising on dietary goals. Tofu scrambles can be easily customized with an array of vegetables and spices, adding flavor and nutritional variety to the dish.

Schneider says, "Tofu scramble with vegetables is a savory and protein-packed breakfast. Tofu, a complete source of plant-based protein, is sure to keep you satiated, while colorful vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Pair it with a whole-grain tortilla for a healthier breakfast burrito alternative."

2. Strawberry Banana Smoothie

A strawberry banana smoothie stands out as a refreshing and nutritious low-calorie, high-protein breakfast option. Combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the creamy texture of bananas, this smoothie delivers a burst of flavor without the need for added sugars. To enhance its nutritional profile, many opt to incorporate protein sources such as Greek yogurt or plant-based protein powder. The result is a satisfying blend that not only provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants but also offers a significant protein boost to support satiety and muscle maintenance.

Jones says, "[A] great smoothie choice to start your day with is this strawberry banana smoothie. Add in a scoop of protein powder to [boost its protein content.]"

According to the recipe linked here which has the full ingredients, instructions, and nutritional value, the pairing of strawberries and banana is further enhanced by the inclusion of chia seeds. These seeds not only contribute heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids but also provide a substantial dose of fiber, adding to the overall nutritional value of this classic blend.

3. Overnight Oats with Greek Yogurt and Berries

As a convenient and easily prepared meal, overnight oats with Greek yogurt and berries stands out as a flavorful and weight-conscious breakfast choice, providing the nutrients needed to kickstart the day while contributing to long-term weight management goals. Greek yogurt, known for its high protein content, teams up with fiber-rich oats and antioxidant-packed berries to create a satisfying and energizing morning treat. The combination of protein and fiber promotes a sense of fullness, preventing mid-morning hunger pangs and unnecessary snacking.

"This breakfast packs about 20 grams of protein from the Greek yogurt and chia seeds. Protein keeps you feeling full longer, reducing cravings and preventing overeating throughout the day. Fiber from oats further aids digestion and satiety. Berries add antioxidants and vitamins without much sugar," Nanavati says.

Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup unsweetened Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk, 1/4 cup berries (choose your favorites!), 1/4 teaspoon chia seeds, optional sweetener (honey, maple syrup, etc.).

Nanavati says to "mix all ingredients in a mason jar or container, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, grab and go!"

4. Veggie Egg Scramble with Smoked Salmon

This protein-packed morning option combines the nutritional prowess of eggs with the lean, omega-3-rich profile of smoked salmon, creating a savory and satisfying dish. Loaded with veggies, this scramble not only provides a burst of vitamins and minerals but also delivers a substantial dose of protein that supports muscle maintenance and satiety. The combination of high-quality protein and healthy fats in smoked salmon ensures a balanced meal that keeps you feeling full and energized throughout the morning.

Nanavati shares that "this scramble boasts around 25 grams of protein from the eggs and salmon. Protein and healthy fats like those in salmon keep you full and energized, while vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients. The low-calorie nature contributes to a healthy weight management plan."

Ingredients: 1 cup chopped vegetables (spinach, broccoli, bell peppers), 2 eggs, 1 oz smoked salmon, 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, salt and pepper to taste.

She says to "pre-chop vegetables and store them in containers. In the mornings, sauté vegetables in a pan, and add scrambled eggs, salmon, and feta cheese. Season and enjoy!"

5. High-Protein Smoothie Bowl with Nuts and Seeds

This vibrant bowl combines the goodness of protein-rich Greek yogurt or plant-based protein powder with an array of nuts and seeds, offering a symphony of flavors and textures. The protein content not only fuels your morning but also helps in maintaining muscle mass, a crucial aspect of successful weight loss.

"This bowl can offer up to 30 grams of protein, depending on the protein powder used. Protein and fiber from the smoothie ingredients keep you satiated, while healthy fats from nuts and seeds provide sustained energy. Additionally, this breakfast is low in added sugar and rich in vitamins and minerals," says Nanavati.

Ingredients: 1 scoop plant-based protein powder, 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, 1 banana, 1/2 cup spinach, 1/4 cup mixed nuts and seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds).

Nanavati tells us to "blend all ingredients except nuts and seeds into a smoothie. Transfer to a bowl and top with your favorite nut and seed mix. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup (optional)."

6. Breakfast Burrito with Black Beans and Avocado

Wrapped in a whole-grain tortilla, this burrito provides a balance of fiber and protein, fostering a sense of fullness and aiding in weight management. Black beans offer plant-based protein while avocado contributes healthy fats, making this breakfast a powerhouse of essential nutrients.

"This flavorful burrito provides around 20 grams of protein from the eggs and black beans. Fiber from black beans and whole wheat tortilla keeps you full, while healthy fats from avocado provide satiety and contribute to heart health. This meal is low in sugar and packed with nutrients," says Nanavati.

Ingredients: Whole wheat tortilla, 1/2 cup cooked black beans, 1/4 cup scrambled eggs, 1/4 avocado, salsa, and your favorite toppings (cilantro, onions, hot sauce)."

She instructs to "cook black beans in advance and scramble eggs ahead of time. Store separately and assemble burritos when it's time for breakfast."

7. Protein Pancakes

Protein pancakes are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that offers a significant protein boost to start your day off right. This high protein content helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can prevent overeating later in the day and support weight loss efforts. Additionally, protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, making protein pancakes an excellent choice for individuals looking to maintain or build muscle mass, especially as they age.

Richards recommends whipping up some protein pancakes to stay satiated throughout the day. "Make pancakes using protein powder instead of flour and top with Greek yogurt and berries for a protein-packed breakfast," she says. "Protein pancakes are a great breakfast option for anyone wanting to increase their protein intake and cut down on refined carbohydrates."

8. Oats with Protein Powder

By combining the fiber-rich goodness of oats with the protein boost from protein powder, this breakfast choice offers sustained energy and satiety throughout the morning. Saari says this is one of the best ways to add more protein into your breakfast every morning. "Oats are a fantastic source of soluble fiber, which slows down digestion and keeps you feeling full," Saari notes.

But adding protein powder to the mix can really bring things to the next level. "Adding protein powder not only enhances the protein content, crucial for muscle maintenance and satiety, but also makes this a more balanced meal," she says. "This combination ensures a steady release of energy, preventing spikes in blood sugar and reducing the urge to snack, which is beneficial for weight control." Perfect!

9. Poached Eggs

Poached eggs, a classic breakfast staple, hold significant potential in aiding weight loss efforts for individuals over 40. These protein-rich gems not only provide a satisfying and nutritious start to the day but also offer several benefits conducive to weight management. High in protein and low in calories, poached eggs help keep you feeling full for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating later in the day. Additionally, they are rich in essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D, which support metabolism and overall energy levels, crucial factors for maintaining a healthy weight, particularly as we age.

"Poached eggs are a great source of protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time, reducing the likelihood of overeating and snacking between meals," Best reveals. She also says all the nutrients found in eggs "are important for overall health and wellness."

10. Protein Smoothie with Whey Protein, Spinach, and Almond Milk

This nutrient-packed blend offers a convenient and delicious way to boost protein intake while keeping calories in check. Whey protein, a high-quality protein source, helps promote feelings of fullness and supports muscle maintenance, essential for maintaining a healthy weight as we age. Spinach adds a nutritional punch, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while almond milk offers a creamy texture with fewer calories than traditional dairy milk. Together, these ingredients create a satisfying and nourishing smoothie that aids in appetite control, supports muscle health, and contributes to overall weight management.

Dr. Foxman says that "whey protein is a complete protein," noting its immense benefits when it comes to muscle health.

11. Beans

Full with fiber and plant-based protein, beans offer a dual mechanism for promoting satiety and curbing cravings throughout the day. The slow-digesting nature of beans stabilizes blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes and subsequent overeating.

Evink says, "Adding 1/2 cup of beans (like black beans or cannellini beans) is a simple way to increase the protein and fiber content of your breakfast! A 1/2 cup of beans provides 8 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber. Incorporate them into egg scrambles, breakfast burritos, or breakfast bowls."

She goes on to elaborate on the benefits of eating something that is rich in protein and fiber such as beans: "Both protein and fiber help to slow down our digestion, keeping us fuller for a longer period of time and potentially reducing appetite and hunger cravings. Protein and fiber, together, help to prevent those spikes in blood sugar as well."