15 Foods to Avoid Eating for Breakfast

Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day because it helps restore our energy after a night of fasting. Choosing the right foods in the morning can boost energy, focus, and productivity, giving your day a strong start.

However, picking the wrong foods for breakfast may lead to a quick energy spike followed by tiredness and hunger before lunch. Unhealthy choices in the morning can also set the tone for poor eating habits throughout the day.

Some foods on this list may surprise you—especially number 15 in our roundup of the worst breakfast choices.

1. Sugary and very refined cereals

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Despite their appealing packaging and popularity with kids, many breakfast cereals—even those labeled "healthy"—are packed with sugar. While whole grain cereals without added sugar can be nutritious, most brands add sugar to puffed rice, honey-coated nuts, and frosted varieties. Too much sugar in the morning gives short-term energy but leaves you hungry soon after. Always check nutrition labels and choose high-fiber, whole grain cereals without added sugar. Even microwaveable porridges can hide sugary syrups, so pick plain oats, uncoated corn flakes, or traditional oatmeal.