Breakfast Bites the Big One: No bake breakfast bars to save time and turn up your energy level

Driving into downtown on my morning commute, traffic is at a near standstill. I believe there may be an accident in my lane. I change lanes and finally move on only to realize my lane was stopped not for an accident, but rather cars were lined up for fast food.

The high-fat, low fiber meals and sugar-loaded drinks in the drive thru may give you a quick burst of satisfaction but at a high cost. The bestselling sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit has 32g of fat, 215mg of cholesterol...and a mere 2g of fiber! It zaps energy.

Many people skip making breakfast and hit a drive thru to save time. However, with a little pre-planning a healthy, delicious, on the go breakfast can be made ahead and stored easily. Those drive thru runs increase your waistline and drain your bank account. Skipping it saves $.

Your mom told you breakfast was the most important meal of the day, and science backs up mom's claim. But it's important to start the day right. Having a meal high in fiber, calcium, and vitamin C gives you a sustained boost of energy. Protein is good but not as necessary.

People who have well balanced breakfasts have lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall weight. These slow release foods also help cognitive function and mental alertness. Model good behavior. Children are more likely to be breakfast eaters if their parents are.

No bake breakfast bars are the way to go. Creamy peanut butter gives the bar a protein base. Old fashioned rolled oats add dense fiber. Flax offers omega-3 fatty acids. Wheat germ boosts folate and vitamin E. A touch of sweet comes in the form of honey and dried fruit.

Ingredients:

3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup honey

1 1/2 cups quick oats or rolled oats

1/4 cup ground flaxseed

1/4 cup wheat germ

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 1/4 cups mix-ins of choice (recommend: dried cranberries, chopped dried cherries, mini chocolate chips, and nuts)

Directions:

Microwave peanut butter and honey until blended and smooth. In a bowl combine all dry ingredients. Pour warm nut and honey mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring. Mixture should be very thick and sticky. Press mix into a parchment lined pan. Refrigerate ~3+ hrs.

Too many people think they're too pressed for time to eat breakfast or make a healthy breakfast at home. Skipping or getting fast food puts you on the fast track to bad health. Making food at home sets a great example for your household and is great for you. No cooking required!