A well-balanced breakfast is crucial for kicking off your day on the right foot. It sets the stage for your energy levels and helps maintain steady blood sugar throughout the day. Although fast food isn’t usually linked with healthy choices, it can sometimes be a handy option when you’re pressed for time. Luckily, even at chains like Starbucks, you can find breakfast items that align with your nutritional and weight loss goals without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
Nutritionists and other health experts agree that Starbucks offers several breakfast options that can be part of a wholesome morning routine. It’s always important to watch your intake of calories, fat, and sodium, but selecting meals rich in protein and fiber can help you feel full longer and avoid overeating later on. Let’s explore four of the best” and “healthiest breakfast items” you can order at Starbucks, as recommended by specialists.
Dietitians Share 4 Healthy Starbucks Breakfast Ideas To Support Your Weight Loss Journey
1. Spinach & Feta Egg White Wrap
According to dietitian Molly Morgan, RD says there's a great option to consider at Starbucks: their Spinach and Feta Egg White Wrap. "This wrap is so easy to eat on the go," she says. But it isn't only convenient—it's actually quite nutritious, too!
Morgan notes that it "delivers 20 grams of protein coming mostly from cage free egg whites." Plus, it's made with a whole wheat wrap, which she says "has 3 grams of fiber and will help to fill you up!" Yum! With only 290 calories, this isn't a bad way to start your day at all.
2. Oatmeal
All though all of the sweet pastries on display may be tempting, limiting your intake of refined carbs and sugar is an important part of staying healthy. Luckily, Starbucks offers many different breakfast options, including a few healthy menu items.
Nutritionist Paula Rubello recommends going with the oatmeal. "If you are planning to eat breakfast at Starbucks, get the plain oatmeal for some high fiber carbohydrates and top it with nuts for healthy fats," she suggests. "Order some egg white bites for protein and you will have a very balanced breakfast!" Sounds perfect!
3. Berry Trio Parfait
Nathan Richardson, health expert and Founder of Bariatric Journal tells us that the ideal breakfast to support a weight loss journey would be one that includes protein and healthy fats. "This combination will help keep you full throughout the morning and can help stave off cravings later in the day," he says. He notes that "by making small changes like this to your diet, you can help prevent weight gain over time."
With that said, Starbucks offers a nutritious Berry Trio Parfait featuring nonfat vanilla yogurt blended with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. It's crowned with a crunchy honey-oat granola, making it a wholesome choice for your well-being.
4 Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box
Seeking a protein-packed breakfast you can grab on the go? Starbucks has you covered with a convenient box featuring two cage-free hard-boiled eggs, crisp tart apple slices, juicy grapes, and creamy white cheddar cheese. This delightful assortment is perfectly complemented by multigrain muesli bread and honey peanut butter.
When it comes to healthy weight loss, registered dietitian Jesse Feder, RDN, CPT, tells us that hard-boiled eggs, like in this box, stand out as an excellent low-sugar, high-protein snack. "Hard boiled eggs are high in protein, vitamin D, B vitamins, and healthy fats, all while being low in calories," he says, adding that the high protein and low calorie content of eggs is "great for satisfying hunger and preventing overeating." This, he notes, can "aid in weight loss over time."
The Bottom Line
Feder further adds that a breakfast with "high protein, vitamin D, and b vitamins" is great for anyone trying to shed pounds this fall.
"These nutrients can also support a healthy metabolism and energy levels," he says, regarding those found in these four Starbucks breakfast options.