Medical professionals have emphasized the importance of eating breakfast, highlighting the potential issues faced by those who frequently skip this meal.
In recent years, health experts have observed that skipping breakfast has gained popularity due to its supposed health benefits. However, a recent study has outlined some significant concerns regarding this habit.
Published in September in the Nutrition Research journal on Science Direct, the study acknowledges the divisive nature of breakfast omission, citing ‘potential health consequences across multiple domains’ but stresses the possible negative outcomes that warrant attention.
The study notes that ‘breakfast omission is linked to various adverse health effects [and that] evidence highlights associations with obesity and weight gain due to altered hormonal responses influencing hunger and energy balance.’
Beyond potential weight management concerns, there are additional negative impacts associated with skipping breakfast.
The researchers indicate that missing this meal can negatively influence gut microbiota, leading to inflammation and metabolic issues.
The study also suggests ‘potential links to increased cancer risk through inflammatory pathways, while cognitive decline, mood disorders, and athletic performance’ may also suffer as a result.
Dr. Lopez-Jimenez from the Mayo Clinic has previously spoken out on this subject.
He explained: “Skipping breakfast, historically, hasn’t been something necessarily healthy. There are numerous studies showing that people who skip breakfast have an increased risk for heart disease and many other ailments.
“Part of it is the high adrenaline state that occurs early in the morning. If you match that with no food, no calories at all, what happens is that the body says, ‘Well, with no food, I could die from starvation, so I have to do some extra things.
“And those extra things are basically crunching the glands that make adrenaline. And essentially, the body gets into this rush of adrenaline.”
Dr. Lopez-Jimenez further noted that individuals who forgo breakfast often end up consuming a larger dinner, which results in the body receiving more calories at a time when they are least needed.
He also pointed out that evidence suggests a higher likelihood of heart attacks occurring in the morning.
So, while skipping a nutritious breakfast might seem beneficial, it may not be the most favorable choice for your health in the long run.