Starting the day with a healthy breakfast could be key to protecting your brain as you age, according to recent research. While we’ve long been told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, a new study highlights that skipping it could have significant consequences for brain health in older adults.
A study published in the Journal of Neurorestoratology suggests that consistently skipping breakfast may increase the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegeneration—conditions that involve the gradual loss of brain function. The research, which involved over 850 older adults, showed that those who skipped breakfast regularly performed worse on cognitive tests and were more likely to display signs of neurodegeneration over time. Some participants also underwent MRI scans, which confirmed a decrease in brain volume among those who skipped their morning meal.
While the study shows a clear link, it doesn’t fully explain why skipping breakfast affects brain health. However, experts have some theories. According to Dr. Scott Kaiser, a geriatrician, there is compelling evidence suggesting breakfast plays a vital role in brain function. Dr. Raymond Romano, a clinical researcher, emphasizes that the brain needs a steady supply of fuel to perform well, particularly in the form of glucose, its preferred energy source. Skipping breakfast disrupts this energy supply, potentially leading to brain fog and difficulty concentrating. Neurologist Dr. Amit Sachdev adds, “The brain relies solely on blood sugar for energy, and skipping breakfast deprives it of that fuel.”
To support brain health, experts recommend an overall healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a balanced diet. The Alzheimer’s Association highlights two particular diets: the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and Mediterranean diets, both of which focus on ample fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats, while limiting red meat, sugary beverages, and processed foods. Dr. Romano also advises making small changes, such as increasing fruit and vegetable intake, reducing red meat, and incorporating healthy fats into meals.
While further research is needed to fully explore the link between breakfast habits and cognitive decline, this study offers strong evidence for the importance of starting the day with a nutritious meal. So, the next time you’re considering skipping breakfast, remember that even a small meal—like fruit and yogurt or wholemeal toast—can provide crucial energy for your brain. Giving your brain the fuel it needs may be essential for maintaining mental sharpness in the long term.
Related topics:
Study Reveals Smoking Reduces Life Expectancy by 17 Minutes for Men, 22 for Women
Black Men at Greater Risk of Dying from Prostate Cancer Due to Health Inequities
Man who waited 12 hours in A&E after coughing up blood says NHS is ‘out of time’
