When it comes to reaching wellness goals, there are few diets that have as much support from the fitness community as Paleo. In fact, Hu Kitchen, which is not only frequented by elite New York athletes, it’s stocked at popular boutique fitness studios like Barry’s Bootcamp, is entirely built around the Paleo diet. The idea behind Paleo is to go back to the way cavemen ate; meaning a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, nuts, seeds, seafood and healthy fats, while cutting out dairy, grains, legumes, processed foods, starches, alcohol and sugar. Proponents of the diet point to the scientific research that has found that eating this way helps improve blood lipids, weight loss and that it reduces pain from autoimmunity. Detractors underline that it’s not wise to cut out entire food groups unless medical reasons call for it.
No matter which side you’re on, however, there’s no arguing that there are some very real merits to the Paleo way of eating — cutting down on sugar and processed foods will always be a plus. But there’s no need to go extremes and omit, for example, healthy grains and legumes if your body shows no signs of intolerance. It’s also worth bearing in mind that completely cutting out things like milk chocolate and after-work margaritas is simply not feasible in the long term. To ensure dietary success, start off with small steps like breakfast.
To get the ball rolling, here’s a look at 20 amazing Paleo breakfast ideas.
Paleo Breakfast Recipes We’re Obsessed With
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Paleo Breakfast Stuffed Peppers
Change up your morning routine with these unique stuffed peppers. For extra protein, add in grass-fed meat.
Image: Pinterest via Stupid Easy Paleo
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Healthy Greek Yogurt and Honey Blueberry Muffins
While yogurt isn't allowed, most people who follow the Paleo diet make an exception for Greek yogurt. Get your probiotic fill with these breakfast muffins.
Image: Pinterest via Baker by Nature
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Broiled Grapefruit
Simple and flavorful, broiling a grapefruit is a pretty uniquely brilliant idea. Top the broiled fruit with honey, ginger or cinnamon, some slices of banana and you've turned a simple grapefruit into a tasty meal.
Image: Pinterest via She Wears Many Hats
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Paleo Casserole
A hearty, protein-rich dish, this is a great start if you have a busy day ahead. It's also made with filling ingredients, so you'll avoid the urge to snack.
Image: Pinterest via Bravo For Paleo
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Pumpkin Pancakes
Go carb-free with this pumpkin-rich recipe. Note that they turn out better if you make them small since their low flour content makes them hard to flip.
Image: Pinterest via Paleo Grubs
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Healthy Smoothie
This recipe appeared in an episode of The Dr. Oz Show and was deemed a healthy way to start off your day with protein. This smoothie, according to the doctor, will also work to boost your metabolism the entire day.
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Fried Honey Bananas
If you're craving something fried, this is the perfect fix. Made with nothing aside from honey, bananas and cinnamon, this is a guilt-free "dessert."
Image: Pinterest via Rachel Schultz
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Breakfast Muffins
A healthy alternative to an English muffin, this recipe is also very versatile. While the recipe calls for red, green or yellow peppers, you can easily swap them out for whatever veggies you have on hand.
Image: Pinterest via Gal on a Mission
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Coconut Chia Seed Pudding
Only a handful of ingredients go into this texture-rich breakfast. Full of healthy fats, keep it in the fridge for a few hours for a nice, thick texture.
Image: Pinterest via The Healthy Foodie
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2-Ingredient Pancakes
Perfect for anyone with a busy schedule, these two-ingredient sweet potato pancakes are very easy to make. They're also gluten-, dairy-, nut- and soy-free.
Image: Pinterest via Happy Healthy Mama
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French Toast Scramble
Sweet and filling, this bread-free French toast is made with a short list of clean ingredients, including egg whites and bananas. Better yet, you can add spices like cinnamon or fruit for extra flavor.
Image: Pinterest via Sweet Success
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Breakfast Burrito
Enjoy a Paleo breakfast on the go with this hearty, bread-free, low-carb burrito. Full of protein and antioxidants from the veggies, it's also easy to reheat.
Image: Pinterest via Spoonful of Sugar Free
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Bacon Wrapped Avocados
This is the ultimate Paleo and Atkins breakfast. Low carb and high protein, eat up before avocados become hard to come by!
Image: Pinterest via Oh, Sweet Basil
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Cranberry Pistachio Energy Bites
Not only are these quick and easy little balls packed with flavor and nutrition, but no baking is required. They also have both sweet and salty ingredients to satisfy multiple cravings.
Image: Pinterest via Gimme Some Oven
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Breakfast Cupcakes
A savory and hearty play on a cupcake, this protein-rich breakfast packs in nutrition. Plus, you can easily eat it when you're on the move.
Image: Pinterest via The Paleolithic Crossfitter
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Breakfast Casserole
If you're more committed to cooking, this is a great breakfast. While it requires a bit more work than most of the other breakfast ideas, it's versatile and you can easily play around with most of the ingredients (like swapping out vegetables based on preference).
Image: Pinterest via Clarks Condensed
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Almond Chai Bites
Check out this recipe for a satisfying, no-bake, sweet and spicy treat. The grain-free granola works just as well on its own as it does broken up and used as a topping.
Image: Pinterest via Daily Bites
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Smoky Maple Sage Breakfast Sausage
The perfect alternative to bacon and eggs — the two most popular Paleo breakfast ingredients — this unique sausage recipe combines sweet and savory. Made with sage and maple syrup, it works just as well for lunch and dinner.
Image: Pinterest via The Curious Coconut
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Blueberry Scones
Make a batch of these to eat now and an extra to freeze for later. In addition to blueberries, this recipe is made with healthy ingredients, including cashews for plenty of heart-healthy fats.
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Paleo Oatmeal
Change up your traditional oatmeal breakfast with this eggs and banana-based recipe. It's both sweet and filling.
Image: Pinterest via Bravo For Paleo
