Most Important Meal of the Day

by Valerie Nahmad — September 13, 2007

Turns out mom was right--breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially for dieters. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that people who eat breakfast consume an average of 100 fewer calories throughout the day than those who don't. Women's Health offers up a few quick tips to boost your breakfast:

• Eat early. The sooner you start your metabolism by eating, the sooner it can start burning calories.
• Eat enough. Plan to get 20 to 25 percent of your day's calories from breakfast--a substantial breakfast helps reduce cravings and prevents nighttime overeating.
• Eat smart. Stick to unprocessed homemade meals and avoid sodium and chemical additives. If morning cooking isn't an option, look for pre-packaged high-fiber, low-sugar options.

Are you a morning eater? Any favorite breakfast tips to share?