What you eat in the morning can set the tone for the rest of the day. It’s especially important to be mindful of your breakfast choices if you’re aiming for a flatter stomach, as your diet can make and break your weight loss progress. According to Dr. Dan Sullivan, ND, starting your day with the wrong foods can sabotage your efforts before you even leave the house.
In a recent TikTok, Dr. Sullivan, a naturopathic doctor, shared his top three worst foods to eat for breakfast. His list includes bagels, processed breakfast meats, and sugary drinks—foods that are not only common breakfast staples but also potential culprits in derailing your health goals.
1. Bagels
Bagels may be a breakfast favorite, but according to Dr. Sullivan, they’re far from the best choice. "Bagels are high in processed carbohydrates," he explains. These refined carbs "turn into sugar in the body relatively quickly and can lead to blood sugar imbalances." When your blood sugar spikes and crashes, it can trigger cravings and lead to overeating later in the day, making it harder to maintain a flat stomach.
Additionally, Dr. Sullivan points out that "most bagels also contain gluten, which can be problematic for many people." Gluten sensitivity or intolerance can lead to bloating and digestive discomfort, further hindering your efforts to achieve a flatter stomach.
2. Processed and Conventionally Raised Breakfast Meats
Next on the list are conventionally raised and processed breakfast meats, such as bacon and sausage. While these might seem like a hearty way to start the day, Dr. Sullivan cautions against them. "Conventionally raised bacon, sausage, or other processed breakfast meats often contain unhealthy fats, high levels of sodium, and other preservatives," he says. These ingredients can contribute to inflammation and water retention, making it difficult to maintain a lean and toned midsection.
The high sodium content in these meats can also lead to bloating, a common concern for those trying to achieve a flat stomach. If you’re a fan of breakfast meats, consider opting for leaner, organic options that are free from added preservatives and hormones.
3. Sugary Drinks
Lastly, Dr. Sullivan advises against starting your day with sugary drinks. "Sugary drinks like fruit juices, flavored lattes, or energy drinks may provide an initial burst of energy," he acknowledges. However, he warns that "most are loaded with added sugars and other artificial ingredients." While these drinks might give you a quick energy boost, the sugar crash that follows can leave you feeling sluggish and craving more sugar—a cycle that’s detrimental to both your energy levels and your waistline.
These sugary beverages can also contribute to excess calorie intake without providing any real nutritional value, making it harder to achieve a flat stomach. Dr. Sullivan suggests swapping out these drinks for water, herbal teas, or black coffee to start your day on the right foot.
Bottom line
Achieving a flat stomach isn’t just about hitting the gym—it’s also about making smart dietary choices, especially at breakfast. Dr. Dan Sullivan’s advice serves as a reminder that what you eat first thing in the morning can have a significant impact on your metabolism, energy levels, and overall health. By avoiding bagels, processed breakfast meats, and sugary drinks, you can set yourself up for success and move one step closer to your fitness goals.
