Breakfast vital for reaching daily nutrient goals, study suggests

29 Oct 2018 --- The regular consumption of breakfast is necessary to achieve the recommended daily intake of nutrients and can boost an overall healthy lifestyle, according to a study published in Nutrients. The study used data from the National Adult Nutrition Survey (NANS) – a food consumption survey conducted among 1,500 Irish men and women over the age of 18 – to determine the difference between regular breakfast consumption versus irregular breakfast consumption – as opposed to breakfast omission.

The findings could serve as a simple message from health professionals to ensure optimal nutrition profiles in the public and help the population in reaching its overall daily micronutrient targets, the researchers concluded.

Skipping breakfast has been associated with increased disease risk such as obesity, diabetes and coronary heart disease, as well as unhealthy lifestyles and lower dietary quality.

Those who regularly consumed breakfast were identified as those who consumed breakfast three to four times out of the four days of the data collection period; such consumers comprised the majority of the population at 94 percent.

The consumption of breakfast contributed significantly to the daily micronutrient intake of individuals, by providing, on average, 24 percent of dietary fiber, 32 percent of iron, 30 percent of calcium, 32 percent of folate and 37 percent of riboflavin. These participants also had the highest adherence to healthier dietary patterns, such as vegetarianism. They also consumed higher levels or fish, vegetables and dietary supplements in the diet, as well as lower intakes of red meat and sugar confectionery. Healthier lifestyle traits were also identified, such as less time watching TV and lower levels of smoking.

Facets of an unhealthy lifestyle were more prevalent among those who irregularly ate breakfast. Women over fifty were the most likely to regularly consume breakfast while younger, single participants who smoke were least likely. 

The researchers conclude that the study suggests that regular breakfast intake is associated with overall higher dietary quality, lower prevalence of smoking and decreased television watching time. Therefore, this study could serve as an indicator of healthy dietary and lifestyle behavior. Based on the findings obtained, it could be suggested that health professionals highlight the importance of regular breakfast consumption to those who skip breakfast. This simple message could improve compliance with nutritional recommendations and adherence to a healthy lifestyle.