What Are The Hidden Dangers of Skipping Breakfast? You Must Know This!
While many people skip breakfast for various reasons, such as lack of hunger or busy schedules, research has shown that this habit can lead to significant health risks. Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong, a nutrition expert from Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, explains that breakfast is essential for overall health, and skipping it can lead to numerous negative effects.
1. Tiredness and Low Energy
- Energy Boost: Breakfast provides essential nutrients and energy needed for both the brain and body to function.
- Without Breakfast: Skipping breakfast can cause your metabolism to slow down, leaving you fatigued, less alert, and with difficulty concentrating or remembering.

2. Obesity and Weight Gain
- Myth of Weight Loss: Many believe skipping food helps with weight loss, but Dr. Phuong clarifies this misconception.
- Increased Hunger: Without breakfast, you’re more likely to overeat later in the day or snack excessively, which can lead to weight gain over time.

3. Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases
- Metabolism and Blood Sugar: food kickstarts metabolism and stabilizes blood sugar levels. Skipping it leads to fluctuations that can increase insulin resistance, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
- Inflammation: Prolonged fasting from skipping breakfast can raise inflammation in the body, contributing to chronic diseases.

4. Gastric and Duodenal Ulcers
- Stomach Acid: Skipping meals results in stomach acid being produced without food to neutralize it, which can damage the stomach lining and lead to ulcers.
- Cancer Risk: Skipping meals is also linked to a higher risk of gastrointestinal cancers, including those of the esophagus, stomach, and colon.

5. Gallstones Formation
- Gallbladder Function: Regular eating helps stimulate bile release from the gallbladder. Skipping breakfast prevents this, which can cause bile stagnation and lead to the formation of gallstones.

Healthy Breakfast Recommendations
Dr. Phuong recommends a nutritious, balanced breakfast that includes all four food groups:
- Protein: Eggs, milk, lean meats, and beans
- Complex Carbs: Oats, whole grains, sweet potatoes
- Healthy Fats: Nuts, avocados, olive oil
- Fruits and Vegetables
A balanced breakfast ensures that your body receives the necessary nutrients to kickstart your day and maintain overall health.