This hunk gives a whole new meaning to breakfast in bed. Yum.

You’ve probably heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It’s no myth! All of us stand to reap a number of benefits by breaking the fast, including:

• More vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber in your diet.
• Increased productivity and concentration.
• More energy to grab life by the horns!
• Control and manage weight.

But what should you eat? Since I eat breakfast when I return from the gym around 8:00 AM (I eat a banana before the gym), I like my breakfast to aid in my post-workout recovery. Since protein and carbohydrates are essential in repairing and rebuilding your muscles, my breakfasts always contains a combination of protein (eggs, protein powder, Greek yogurt) and carbohydrates (bread, fruits, whole-grain cereals).

But I also like my breakfast to include a good dose of fiber. Fiber dissolves slowly, and it helps the body feel full longer. This is especially great for people looking to control their weight.

Here are some ideas for breakfasts that contain carbs, protein and fiber:

• Boiled egg, old fashioned oats and an apple.
• Protein powder drink and high-fiber cereal.
• Greek yogurt, nuts and orange juice.
• Whole wheat pita stuffed with boiled eggs, raspberries on the side.
• Veggies, salsa and eggs wrapped in a pita. Serve with banana.

And if you do exercise early in the morning (like me), make sure you grab something small (like a piece of fruit) before you hit the gym – studies show it gets your metabolism pumping and fuels your body. When you return home, feast on your full breakfast.

Put breakfast to work for you – let me know some of your favorite breakfast ideas in the comments below.

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