This simple ingredient takes your smoothie from a fruity snack to a well-rounded, protein-rich breakfast.

Key Takeaways

Smoothies are the ultimate breakfast option for busy mornings.

To make your smoothie a well-rounded breakfast, youll need to add more than just fruit and water.

A person holding a smoothie blender cup filled with fruit and yogurt

Photo:Getty Images. EatingWell Design.

Eating a high-protein breakfast helps support steady energy levels throughout the morning.

Protein gets digested more slowly than carbs, so it can keep you held over for longer.

It also helps prevent blood sugar spikes, making it a helpful nutrient for managing diabetes and prediabetes.

Mapo Tofu

The best high-protein upgrade for your morning smoothie is actually in your refrigerator:Greek yogurt.

Fortunately, Greek yogurt is a good source of calcium.

Being lactose intolerant can make getting certain nutrients found in dairy products, like calcium, more challenging.

The Bottom Line

Smoothies are a convenient yet nutritious breakfast option.

American Diabetes Association.Lets Talk About Protein for People with Diabetes.

U.S. Department of Agriculture.

FoodData Central.Yogurt, Greek, plain, lowfat.

University of Virginia Health System.Lactose Content of Common Dairy Foods.

2023;15(20):4366. doi:10.3390/nu15204366

National Institutes of Health.Probiotics Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.

National Institutes of Health.Calcium Fact Sheet for Consumers.