The 20 Worst Breakfasts in America
Not all breakfasts are created equal; some can do more harm than good. Whether grabbing a quick bite on the go or indulging in a weekend brunch, you should know what you’re putting inside your body. Here are 20 of the worst breakfast options in America to avoid if you can.
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
These fluffy stacks of pancakes are loaded with cinnamon sugar swirls and topped with a cream cheese glaze. While they may sound delicious, this breakfast option packs a whopping amount of calories and fat. One serving of these cinnamon roll pancakes provides more than half the recommended daily caloric and fat intake for most individuals.
Chocolate Chip Scone
Who doesn’t love a warm and flaky scone filled with melty chocolate chips? Unfortunately, indulging in this breakfast treat means consuming high amounts of sugar, refined flour, and unhealthy fats.
Belgian Waffles with Whipped Cream
Belgian waffles are a breakfast favorite for many, but topping them with whipped cream only adds to their unhealthy nature. These waffles are typically made with refined flour and topped with sugary syrups and whipped cream, making them a calorie-dense and nutrient-poor breakfast option.
Fried Chicken Biscuit
This southern classic may be crispy and delicious, but it is far from a nutritious breakfast choice. Fried chicken biscuits are high in calories, unhealthy fats, and sodium. These nutritional shortcomings can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of heart disease.
Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Croissant
Croissants may seem like a healthier alternative to traditional bread slices, but when filled with bacon, eggs, and cheese, they quickly become an unhealthy breakfast option. This breakfast sandwich is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, making it a poor choice for starting your day.
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Stuffed French Toast
You may be familiar with the famous chocolate hazelnut spread, Nutella. This breakfast dish takes it to a new level by stuffing it into French toast and topping it with more syrup and powdered sugar. While it may taste heavenly, this meal contains added sugars and unhealthy fats.
Breakfast Burrito
Who doesn’t love a breakfast burrito filled with all their favorite ingredients? Unfortunately, this popular breakfast dish is often loaded with high-calorie and high-fat ingredients like eggs, cheese, bacon or sausage, and fried potatoes. This combination can quickly add up to an unhealthy meal.
Donuts
What is breakfast without a warm and sweet donut? While they may be tempting, donuts are high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar. A healthier breakfast option would provide more nutrients and keep you full longer.
Sausage Biscuit
Another classic southern breakfast dish, sausage biscuits are typically made with refined flour, processed meat, eggs, and high amounts of sodium. These ingredients make it a poor choice for your day’s first meal.
Breakfast Sandwiches
Breakfast sandwiches are a popular grab-and-go option, but most fast food or pre-packaged versions are far from healthy. A typical breakfast sandwich contains processed meats, cheese, and a high-calorie bread or biscuit. A better option would be to make your own with whole grain bread and lean protein like turkey bacon or egg whites.
Cereal
Cereal has long been marketed as a healthy breakfast choice, but many popular brands are high in sugar and artificial ingredients. Look for cereals with whole grains and minimal added sugars, or choose oatmeal topped with fresh fruit for a healthier breakfast.
Granola
Many may think granola is a healthy option due to its whole grain and nut content, but most store-bought versions are full of added sugars and unhealthy oils. Make your granola using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup and healthy fats like coconut oil.
Breakfast Bars
Convenience is often the selling point for breakfast bars, but most are highly processed and loaded with sugar. Opt for a homemade protein bar or energy balls with whole ingredients and minimal added sugars.
Smoothies
Unfortunately, many store-bought smoothies are full of added sugars and lack the fiber and protein to keep you full. Make your smoothie with whole fruits, vegetables, and a source of protein like yogurt or nut butter.
Breakfast Pizza
Convenience couldn’t have been spelled better than with breakfast pizza. But this breakfast option is typically made with refined flour, greasy toppings like bacon or sausage, and high-fat cheese. Choose a healthier alternative by making your pizza using whole grain crust and lean protein sources.
Breakfast Sausage
Processed breakfast meats like sausage are often high in sodium and unhealthy fats. Opt for leaner options like turkey sausage or plant-based alternatives like tempeh for a healthier breakfast.
Pancakes and Waffles
Pancakes and waffles may seem like a wholesome breakfast choice, but most store-bought mixes are loaded with refined flour, added sugars, and unhealthy oils. Make your own using whole grain flour and natural sweeteners like bananas or applesauce.
Toaster Pastries
A morning on the go often calls for toaster pastries, but these breakfast options are typically filled with sugar and unhealthy fats. Look for healthier alternatives like whole-grain toast topped with natural nut butter or avocado.
Bagels
Bagels have a reputation for being a healthier choice than donuts, but they are still made with refined flour and typically contain high amounts of sodium. Opt for whole grain bagels and top them with lean protein like smoked salmon or hummus for a more nutritious breakfast.
Muffins
When you think of breakfast, muffins may come to mind. Unfortunately, most store-bought versions are essentially cupcakes in disguise, loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats. For a healthier option, use whole-grain flour and natural sweeteners like honey or applesauce to make your muffins at home.
