6 Major Side Effects Of Not Taking Breakfast Daily

The importance of breakfast stems from the need to break the overnight fast and nourish your body with vital nutrients to kickstart your day. While some individuals may indulge in a substantial morning meal, others might skip breakfast due to time constraints arising from late wake-ups or the rush to work. Mornings are often hectic, whether you're commuting to the office or managing tasks from home. Allocating time for breakfast requires intentional planning to ensure you have a moment to sit at a table, in a chair, and dedicate at least 15 minutes to enjoying a nutritious breakfast.

This article delves into 6 consequences of forgoing breakfast, highlighting why skipping this crucial meal can have detrimental effects. Continue reading to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of skipping breakfast.

# Bad For Your Heart

As reported in a JAMA study, men who opt to skip breakfast face a 27% higher likelihood of experiencing a heart attack compared to their breakfast-consuming counterparts. While the risk rate might not be excessively alarming, the study also underscores the positive impact of adopting a healthy breakfast routine in mitigating the risk of heart attacks.

Furthermore, individuals who abstain from breakfast are noted to be more prone to hypertension, which, in turn, contributes to the narrowing of arteries. Consequently, this heightened susceptibility increases their risk of developing heart diseases and experiencing strokes.

# Higher Risk Of Type-2 Diabetes

Harvard University School of Public Health carried out a study with the objective of uncovering connections between eating patterns and health. Over a span of approximately six years, 46,289 women participated in this research. The findings yielded remarkable results, indicating that women who consistently avoided breakfast faced a higher risk of developing Type-2 diabetes compared to those who included breakfast in their daily routine.

The act of skipping breakfast may impact genes associated with the circadian clock and metabolism, potentially leading to an increase in postprandial sugars. However, it is essential to note that further in-depth research is needed to substantiate these findings.

Moreover, the situation becomes more concerning for employed women who neglect their morning meals, as they exhibited a 54% higher likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes.

# Skipping Breakfast Might Cause Weight Gain

If you're following a weight loss plan and routinely skip breakfast, it's worth reconsidering. Research on the adverse effects of forgoing breakfast indicates that individuals who miss this morning meal have an increased likelihood of gaining weight, which goes against your goal of slimming down. Feeling perplexed? Let's delve deeper.

Individuals who choose to skip breakfast often end up consuming more calories, saturated fat, and simple sugars during subsequent meals like lunch and dinner.

# Negative Impact On Mood And Energy Levels

As documented in a 1999 study published in the journal "Physiological Behavior," skipping breakfast can have adverse effects on both energy levels and mood. A British research team conducted an experiment involving 144 healthy individuals who had undergone overnight fasting. The participants were divided into three groups: one received a healthy and moderate breakfast, the second consumed only coffee, and the third was deprived of breakfast altogether. Over the following hours, the groups were closely monitored. The findings revealed that the group deprived of breakfast exhibited the lowest memory skills and highest levels of fatigue, while there was no significant difference observed between the other two groups.

In essence, the study suggests that abstaining from breakfast could lead to a decline in energy levels and negatively impact memory.

# Risk Of Cancer

Skipping breakfast may lead to excessive food consumption throughout the day, contributing to a higher risk of obesity. Research conducted by Cancer Research UK has established a correlation between being overweight or obese and an elevated likelihood of developing cancer.

# Affects Cognitive Functioning

Incorporating breakfast into your daily dietary routine enhances cognitive functioning. A study involving a cohort of teenagers aged between 12 and 15 was conducted in two trials. In one trial, the group was allowed to consume breakfast, while in the second trial, they were instructed to abstain from the morning meal. The results were intriguing, indicating that the group adhering to a breakfast regimen demonstrated improved accuracy in a visual search test, whereas the absence of breakfast led to diminished concentration and consequently poorer results.

The takeaway: Including breakfast provides a cognitive function boost. While the study focused on adolescents, its implications can readily be extended to adults as well.