by Laura Reynolds

Created on: September 25, 2008   Last Updated: October 06, 2008

Both experts and our moms always say the breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If that's true, then why do so many of us insist on skipping it altogether?

Time is a huge factor. Mornings are the busiest time of day for most people. We have to get out of bed, get ready for the day, get the kids off to school, AND we're supposed to find time for a bite to eat?

Seems impossible, but here are a few tips to do all of the above and still get something in your tummy before your first phone call of the day.

Plan ahead. On Sunday, boil a dozen hard-boiled eggs for breakfast throughout the week. Not only will you be able to quickly take a few with you, but you will also be eating a figure-friendly breakfast that will keep you satisfied until lunch. Make sure to keep them in a sealed container, though. They will make your fridge smell otherwise.

Frozen Waffles are your friend! Buy some whole-wheat waffles (Kashi is a great brand), and toast those up while you are getting ready to leave for the office. Once it's brown and toasty, top it with a little peanut butter. A glass of skim milk makes it the perfect comfort meal breakfast. Instantly, you have a quick and healthy breakfast that can be eaten during your commute.

Instant oatmeal is an amazing breakfast idea. It is quick, easy, and healthy. Plus, there are so many options of oatmeal out there to try. Quaker has a Lower Sugar option out there that is pretty good. It also is filled with fiber, which makes you feel fuller longer.

The stand-by breakfast of all quick meals for traditionalists is to grab a cup of low-fat or low-sugar yogurt with a piece of fruit. This is not a bad option, because it's quick to grab and go. Plus, it's healthy for you. Blue Bunny has a low-sugar yogurt that is amazingly good.

If you are in a hurry, and need something at a drive-thru, there are a few healthy options for you. My favorite is the Yogurt Parfait at McDonald's. Yogurt and fruit make an excellent start to the day. Just make sure you opt to leave out the granola. An Egg McMuffin is also a good choice lean Canadian bacon and the egg are perfect. The English muffin is not bad for you either. Try to stay away from sausage and cheese. Those are not the best choices even in a hurry!

Stay away from sugary coffees and those bigger-than-your-head muffins and bagels. They may be quick and easy, but your hips will tell you that they aren't low fat and healthy. Use common sense when choosing your breakfast. If it's something you like, you will be much more likely to keep it up. Experiment to find your favorite.

Keeping breakfast as an everyday occurrence should be high on your list of to dos'. Not only does it energize you first thing the morning, but it also keeps you from overeating at lunch. Try it for a week, and see how you do. You'll be surprised how easy it can be with a little planning. Good luck your mother will be proud!

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