Experts suggest that skipping breakfast for intermittent fasting may not necessarily contribute to weight loss.
According to The Guardian on Monday, Dr. Emily Leeming, a nutritionist at King’s College London, warned that “many people are skipping breakfast due to intermittent fasting, but this is not advisable.”
People who skip breakfast often do so to reduce their overall calorie intake and improve metabolism, but this approach is unlikely to yield effective results.
Additionally, Dr. Leeming points out that research findings contradict the claim that skipping breakfast leads to weight loss. She stated, “The traditional practice of having breakfast is correct.”
Dr. Leeming explains that as digestive function decreases in the evening, eating breakfast and finishing the day’s meals before dinner is advisable.
She also mentioned the potential side effects of skipping breakfast. “When people skip breakfast, they tend to snack more and consume unhealthy snacks in the evening,” she said.
She further stressed the health risks of skipping breakfast. “People need to think beyond simply cutting calories,” she explained, adding, “Diets of those who skip breakfast often lack fiber, essential minerals, and vitamins.”
She also highlighted that skipping breakfast could increase the chances of experiencing depression or stress.
Dr. Leeming questioned, “As a parent, would you send your child to school without breakfast?” and continued, “Then, why do adults skip breakfast?”
She concluded by advising, “Do not skip breakfast. Starting the day with foods rich in fiber and protein is more beneficial for weight loss.”
