At Men’s Health, we consistently receive insightful questions from our readers. From inquiries about banishing man boobs to inquiries about optimal sex positions for conception and the necessity of supplements—our readers seek guidance on a wide range of health and lifestyle topics.
However, one question surpasses all others in frequency: What should I eat for breakfast?
To definitively answer this common query, we consulted Men’s Health nutrition advisor Alan Aragon. Renowned as one of the most brilliant nutritionists globally, Aragon has authored groundbreaking scientific studies and collaborated with a diverse clientele, including bodybuilders, pro athletes, and everyday individuals.
What sets Aragon apart is his lifestyle, mirroring that of many MH readers—he’s committed to hard work and rigorous training. Consequently, his advice doesn’t involve impractical fad diets or obscure ingredients. Instead, he imparts sound guidance accessible to every man.
When we presented the breakfast question to Aragon, his response surprised us. There were no mentions of typical breakfast staples like eggs, sausage, yoghurt, oatmeal, or fruit. Instead, he revealed, “My personal favourite breakfast is a blended mocha shake that consists of cold coffee, a frozen banana, unsweetened cocoa, chocolate protein powder, and walnuts.”
Yes, you read that correctly—a shake featuring chocolate and coffee.
According to Aragon, this unconventional breakfast choice is not only delicious but also filling, healthy, nutritious, and rich in protein. Read on to discover the merits of this single breakfast shake and to obtain the recipe for yourself.
READ MORE: Try This Breakfast Smoothie The Next Time You Need A Quick Energy-Boosting Drink
Ingredients:
1. Coffee
- Aragon favours coffee as a liquid base not only for its taste but also for its energising caffeine content. Moreover, a review in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that coffee may help regulate insulin levels, provide antioxidants, and potentially ward off cancer.
2. Banana
- A nutritionally dense fruit, bananas serve as an ideal source of fuel for athletes due to their balanced mix of glucose and fructose. Studies indicate that this combination is beneficial for individuals engaged in strenuous physical training.
3. Cocoa
- Research published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity highlights cocoa’s superior content of healthy phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity compared to green tea, black tea, or red wine. These compounds may contribute to preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
4. Whey Protein
- Aragon describes whey as a no-brainer, a multi-functional protein powerhouse. Its high bioavailability ensures easy absorption by the body, supported by extensive research indicating its effectiveness in improving and maintaining muscle mass and strength. Additionally, whey offers lesser-known benefits, such as aiding blood sugar and appetite control, strengthening the immune system, and potentially reducing the risk of cancer.
5. Walnuts
- Recognized for their highest omega-3 fatty acid content and antioxidant capacity among all nuts, walnuts, as per Aragon, can improve blood lipid profiles and combat inflammation. Emerging research even suggests that walnuts may play a role in maintaining brain health as individuals age.
Blended Mocha Shake
Ingredients
- 400 ml room-temperature or cold coffee make this the night before
- 1 frozen banana
- 1.5-2 cups ice
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
- 2 scoops chocolate protein powder
- 1 handful walnuts as much as you can grab
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until you hit your desired consistency. If you want a thicker shake, use 2 cups of ice.
