You might think that the phrase "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" is overrated, but it is actually more important than you think. Breakfast is exactly like it sounds: "breaking a fast" when you wake up. Not surprisingly, 31 million Americans skip breakfast every day. This is probably due to a misconception that breakfast recipes, especially healthy ones, are time consuming and tasteless. Unfortunately, what people don't realize is that in the long term, this can be harmful, and can cause us to miss out on all of the great benefits of a super healthy and complete breakfast. 

Besides being a delicious meal, it is also beneficial to our bodies. Some benefits include: 

- Energy to start your day 

- Improvement of mood for the rest of the day

- Aids in weight loss (when balanced correctly)

- Helps balance blood sugar after fasting all night

- Keeps you full until snack/lunch time, so you don't make bad food choices later on in the day

But wait a second...it is not just eating breakfast that's important, but what you eat for breakfast! Having sugary cereals with milk will not provide any protein or fiber, will have large amounts of sugar and fat, and will not provide any of the previous mentioned benefits. However, if you have a healthy balanced breakfast with the adequate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber, you will be impressed by how your day will start in a completely different way. 

To help you out, here are 5 easy and delicious go-to recipes you can make for breakfast or brunch for you and for the whole family, and I promise it won't take much time. You'll never want to skip breakfast again!

1. Oatmeal Pancakes 

These oatmeal pancakes will keep you full because of their high amount of fiber the oats provide, high protein content from eggs, and healthy fats from ground flaxseeds. They are delicious topped with fresh strawberries and all natural maple- syrup. 

2. Yogurt Parfait

Yogurt parfait is not only delicious, but it is also super easy to take anywhere you go! Greek yogurt is the best option because of its large amount of protein. Top it with your favorite fruit, some chia seeds, and your favorite nuts. 

3. Egg White Omelette

To make this delicious and easy omelette, just add some olive oil in a hot pan and add 2-3 egg whites and cook both sides until golden brown. You can add any veggies you like and feel free to sprinkle on some feta cheese. It will provide you enough protein and fiber to start your day!

4. Overnight Chocolate Oats

If you are the kind of person that is too lazy and tired to cook in the morning, this is the perfect recipe for you! Overnight oats are perfect to have when you want a fast meal ready to go in the morning, because they are made the night before. Besides having a chocolatey breakfast (who doesn't want that?), the cocoa powder used in this recipe provides a bunch of antioxidants for your body! How great is that??? 

5. Fluffy Waffles

We all grew up eating Eggos waffles...this will actually take you back to your childhood. These healthy style waffles are delicious and super fluffy! Top them with your favorite all natural nut butter, chocolate chips, fruits, or any healthy topping you like!    

Hopefully these recipes will make your healthy breakfast more fun and delicious, and provide you with the energy you need to have a great day! 

For more healthy and delicious recipes follow @dahealthyness on Instagram.