NEW DELHI: Breakfast has long been hailed as the most important meal of the day, but what happens when you consistently skip it for a month?

While intermittent fasting has gained popularity in recent years, the long-term effects of regularly skipping breakfast remain a topic of debate among nutrition experts. From metabolic changes to impacts on energy levels and cognitive function, there are several potential physiological and psychological consequences of this dietary choice.

Dr Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan, consultant gastroenterologist, Fortis Hospitals Bengaluru tells indianexpress.com about the potential effects on the body when you forgo breakfast for a month.

Dr Srinivasan cites research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that indicates regular breakfast consumption is associated with improved insulin sensitivity, a key marker of metabolic health. “Conversely, chronic breakfast skipping can lead to impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes,” he says.

Additionally, he states that a study in the Journal of Nutritional Science found that breakfast skipping resulted in higher postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose and insulin responses, suggesting a less efficient metabolic response to food later in the day.

He states, “Without breakfast to kickstart energy metabolism, individuals may experience energy fluctuations, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating throughout the day. These effects can be exacerbated by the hormonal imbalances triggered by skipping a morning meal, for a prolonged period, like a month.”

Potential effects on cognitive function and mood

Studies have linked breakfast skipping to impaired cognitive function, particularly in children and adolescents, informs Dr Srinivasan. “Research published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that breakfast consumption was associated with improved attention, memory, and academic performance.”

The neurotransmitter serotonin, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation, is also influenced by breakfast consumption. Skipping breakfast for a month can disrupt serotonin levels, leading to increased irritability, anxiety, and even depressive symptoms.

Changes in weight and body composition

Dr Srinivasan believes that research on the relationship between breakfast skipping and weight is complex and often contradictory. “Some studies, like the one published in Obesity Research and Clinical Practice, suggest that skipping breakfast is associated with weight gain and increased risk of obesity. This could be due to compensatory overeating later in the day, altered appetite regulation, and decreased metabolic rate.”

However, he adds that other studies have found no significant association between breakfast skipping and weight gain or even suggest that it might contribute to modest weight loss in some individuals. “These findings highlight the need for more research to understand the individual variability and long-term effects of breakfast skipping on weight.”

Long-term health risks of not eating your breakfast

Numerous studies have identified potential long-term health risks associated with chronic breakfast skipping, says Dr Srinivasan. These are:

Metabolic Syndrome

A meta-analysis published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that breakfast skipping was associated with a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Cardiovascular Disease

Research suggests that individuals who skip breakfast may have a higher risk of cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke, potentially due to elevated blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation.

Type 2 Diabetes

Several studies, including one published in Public Health Nutrition, have linked breakfast skipping to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This may be due to impaired insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism resulting from irregular eating patterns.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Skipping breakfast can lead to inadequate intake of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fibre, which can have long-term consequences for overall health.

Agencies

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