In recent years, it has been increasingly debated whether skipping breakfast can have a negative impact on health and our cognitive functions. The latest analysis suggests that the habit may be less dangerous for healthy adults than previously thought. A review of more than 70 studies by researchers from the University of Auckland found that skipping breakfast or short-term fasting has no significant effect on brain activity.
Skipping breakfast does not significantly affect cognitive function
A meta-analysis published by researchers in the prestigious journal Psychological Bulletin found that up to 24 hours of food deprivation, including skipping, did not cause significant impairments in attention, memory or thinking speed in healthy adults. This means that a short-term lack of energy from food does not prevent the brain from working efficiently.
The body is able to adapt to short-term starvation
Researchers followed more than 3,000 participants who fasted for 8 to 24 hours and compared their results to those who ate normally. No significant differences were found. Scientists explain that the human body quickly adapts and switches to using internal energy reserves. One of the main sources is ketone bodies, which are formed during the breakdown of fats. It helps the brain maintain stable energy levels even without eating.
Who are these results not for?
Although the findings are reassuring in healthy adults, they do not apply to all groups. Children and adolescents’ brains are much more sensitive to changes in glucose, so skipping breakfast can cause fluctuations in energy and attention. Also, the findings do not apply to people with diabetes, pregnant women and the elderly. For these groups, regular nutrition is essential to well-being.
Skipping breakfast is a matter of personal choice
In conclusion, skipping breakfast is not a threat to brain function in healthy adults. The decision to eat or not eat breakfast can be based on individual habits, comfort and lifestyle, rather than fear of reduced concentration or poorer memory.
Source: ukr.media
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