What's the first thing you think about when you wake up in the morning?

a. Argh! I overslept again!
b. Whose turn is it to take the kids to school?
c. What's for breakfast?

If you answered c, keep reading. In fact, keep reading even if you answered a or b. We need breakfast to jump-start our brains and muscles for a new day. Our morning meal also gets our metabolisms going and keeps us from bingeing the minute we see the office vending machine (two big bonuses for any dieter). And forget about not having time for breakfast, because starting tomorrow morning you can use these easy tips, eat healthy and still get out the door on time.

Ready in less than five minutes

Rushed for time in the morning? Try one of these delicious breakfasts that are ready to eat in less than five minutes:

1. Pour a bowl of high-fiber cereal with skim milk and add a piece of fruit or a glass of juice and you're on your way. Increasing fiber in your diet can help lower fat intake and cholesterol levels, not bad for a simple bowl of cereal. Look for cereal with at least five grams of fiber per serving.

2. Pop frozen multigrain waffles, pancakes or French toast in the microwave or toaster. I make a double batch of homemade pancakes or waffles on weekends and freeze the leftovers for a hot breakfast during the week. Instead of syrup, try spreading applesauce, peanut butter sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar, or even yogurt over your pancakes.