Long before protein shakes, wellness influencers and high-protein meal plans dominated social media, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was quietly embracing the breakfast trend now taking over 2026.
As more health-conscious eaters focus on increasing their protein intake to support energy, muscle health and longevity, nutrition experts continue to stress the importance of starting the day with a protein-rich breakfast, something Jackie Kennedy had apparently mastered decades ago during her years in the White House.
According to René Verdon, the celebrated chef who cooked for the Kennedy family during John F. Kennedy’s presidency, the former First Lady preferred a surprisingly simple morning routine centred around classic, nourishing ingredients.
"At the White House, for example, the Kennedys were not especially fond of the more elaborate egg dishes," René wrote in The White House Chef Cookbook.
© Bettmann Archive"Mrs. Kennedy’s customary breakfast was orange juice, scrambled eggs, two strips of bacon, a little honey and a glass of skimmed milk."
Occasionally, the style icon would also enjoy tea or coffee alongside the meal.
While the breakfast may sound wonderfully understated by modern wellness standards, experts today would likely approve of the protein-packed combination.
© Bettmann ArchiveA serving of three scrambled eggs contains around 19 grams of protein, along with important nutrients including choline and vitamin D, both of which support brain function, bone health and feelings of fullness throughout the day.
The addition of bacon offered an extra protein boost, although experts now suggest processed meats are best enjoyed in moderation.
Meanwhile, orange juice provided vitamin C for immune support, while milk contributed hydration and nutrients that can aid muscle recovery and energy levels.
© Getty ImagesIt seems the former First Lady’s husband also leaned towards a similarly balanced breakfast routine.
In Dinner with the President: Food, Politics, and a History of Breaking Bread at the White House, author Alex Prud’homme revealed that President Kennedy typically opted for orange juice, eggs, bacon, toast with marmalade and coffee with milk in the mornings.
The Kennedys' simple breakfasts now feel remarkably aligned with many of today’s wellness trends, which increasingly focus on whole foods, balanced nutrition and sustainable eating habits over restrictive dieting.
© Getty ImagesBeyond the nutritional value, René also revealed one particularly sweet family detail about Jackie’s breakfast routine involving the couple’s young son, John F. Kennedy Jr..
"Little John often had breakfast with her, and usually ate all her honey and bacon," the chef recalled fondly, "but she did not seem to mind."
