Breakfast, as we know, is the most important yet most often missed meal of the day.  In the hustle and bustle of the weekday morning rush it's easy to skip this essential early morning meal in order to get everyone out the door in time.  But did you know that breakfast kick starts your metabolism?  That's right - eating more can actually help you to lose or maintain your weight.

Here are six quick and easy nutritious morning meals you can eat while rushing, or walking, out the door:

• Fruit and Cheese - Pack an apple, a few ounces of cheese and ¼ cup of walnuts in a re-usable container and nibble away. Portable and easily made in advance this breakfast works for all members of the family.

• Peanut Butter Pancakes - Skip the syrup and spread some all-natural peanut butter a top a whole grain pancake. Top with seeds or peanuts for an extra dose of protein.

• Strawberry Milkshake - Combine 1 cup of frozen strawberries, 1 frozen banana, 1 scoop of protein powder, 1 cup of regular, almond or soy milk and ½ cup of ice in a large blender. Puree and drink.

• Morning Pizza - Top slices of crusty bread with a spoonful of ricotta, sliced tomatoes, fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake until heated through. The ricotta offers protein to keep you feeling full longer which keeps the morning munchies at bay.

• Open-Face Egg McMuffin - Toast an English muffin and top one side with a fried egg, one slice of Canadian bacon and some grated cheddar. Homemade fast food is always a popular choice for the kids and it take less than ten minutes to get this meal on the table. Paired with some fruit it's a perfect early meal.

• Granola and Berries - Trade in your favourite breakfast cereal for some homemade or store-bought granola. Top with yogurt and fresh berries for a nutrient-dense breakfast.