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Following are a few low-glycemic smoothie recipes that range in flavor from fruity to nutty.

Almond Banana Smoothie

Almond milk plus bananas equals a great flavor combination. The nutmeg in this smoothie recipe tops it off, making you wonder whether you're enjoying breakfast or a delicious treat.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

2 large ripe bananas, peeled and sliced

1 1/2 cups almond milk

1/2 cup vanilla nonfat yogurt

2 cups ice cubes

1 teaspoon honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ground nutmeg to taste

1 Blend all the ingredients in a blender until smooth.

2 Divide the smoothie among 4 glasses.

Per serving: Calories 120 (From Fat 17); Glycemic Load 9 (Low); Fat 2g (Saturated 1g); Cholesterol 2mg; Sodium 780mg; Carbohydrate 25g (Dietary Fiber 2g); Protein 3g.

Very Berry Smoothie

This is one of those throw-everything-in-the-blender types of smoothies. The variety of berries gives you quite the nutrient punch to start your day off right. The milk and yogurt offer some protein and fat to round out the mix. (If you want to, you can use plain yogurt rather than vanilla.)

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Yield: 2 servings

1/2 cup strawberries

1/4 cup blueberries

1/4 cup raspberries

1 banana

1/2 cup lowfat vanilla yogurt

1/2 cup lowfat milk

1/2 cup ice cubes

1 Blend the berries, banana, yogurt, milk, and ice cubes in a blender until smooth.

2 Pour into a cup and enjoy!

Per serving: Calories 161 (From Fat 18); Glycemic Load 12 (Medium); Fat 2g (Saturated 1g); Cholesterol 6mg; Sodium 74mg; Carbohydrate 32g (Dietary Fiber 4g); Protein 6g.

Peanut Butter Smoothie

Peanut butter fans can rejoice over this smoothie, which is a little higher in protein and fat, making it a bit more satisfying than your average smoothie meal. This smoothie is really very light, and the peanut butter isn't overwhelming because it's balanced with the banana and milk.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Yield: 2 servings

2 tablespoons creamy reduced-fat peanut butter

1/2 cup lowfat milk

1 banana

1 teaspoon honey

1/2 cup ice cubes

1 Blend the peanut butter and milk together for about 5 seconds.

2 Add the banana, honey, and ice cubes and blend until smooth.

3 Pour into a glass and drink up.

Vary It! Use chunky peanut butter if you want a grittier texture.

Per serving: Calories 186 (From Fat 82); Glycemic Load 9 (Low); Fat 9g (Saturated 2g); Cholesterol 3mg; Sodium 107mg; Carbohydrate 23g (Dietary Fiber 3g); Protein 7g.

Preparing Ahead for a Week's Worth of Fast Breakfast Choices

Doing a little preparation ahead of time is a great way to have healthy, homemade breakfasts on hand during your busy week. After you have them prepared, they become quick grab-and-go starters for your day. Following are a few make-ahead recipes that I think you'll really enjoy.

Almond Granola

Almonds, oats, and honey are lower-glycemic foods that are also known to help lower cholesterol. This healthy breakfast recipe contains all of these ingredients to keep your heart strong and healthy. It also makes for a hearty and filling meal. Be sure to store it in an airtight container after it cools so that it stays dry and crisp.

>Preparation time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Yield: 24 servings

6 cups rolled oats

1 cup slivered almonds

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup honey

1/2 cup canola oil

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2 Mix the oats, almonds, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl and then set the mixture aside.

3 Mix the honey, canola oil, and vanilla extract until it reaches a smooth consistency. Pour the honey mixture into the oat mixture and mix together until the oat mixture is well coated.

4 Spoon the mixture into a greased 13-x-9 glass baking dish. Bake for 40 minutes, or until golden brown,