According to statistics released by Kellogg's, approximately 9% of the UK population skip breakfast and, as a result, are likely to be heavier, less alert and miss out on essential nutrients.
First thing in the morning, the body is low on energy reserves and needs food to get it going. Nutritionists recommend that breakfast should provide 25% of the daily nutritional requirements. People who skip breakfast miss out on many vital nutrients, which they are unlikely to make up for during the rest of the day.
Breakfast is brain food
Eating breakfast has a major impact on mental performance. Studies carried out on children show that children who skip breakfast are not as efficient or alert in both mathematical and creative tasks. This is due the fact that carbohydrate-rich breakfast foods provide the brain with glucose - the preferred fuel of the brain.
Breakfast eaters are healthier
Studies have shown that adults and children who skip breakfast tend to have higher cholesterol levels and, consequently, are at greater risk of developing heart disease.
Eating breakfast can really help boost the intake of vital nutrients, including vitamin A, B vitamins (riboflavin, B6 and B12), calcium, iron and zinc. Fibre is also present in wholegrain cereals, which helps to maintain a healthy digestive system. Kellogg's latest cereal, Muddles, also contains the prebiotic inulin, which promotes the growth or activity of good bacteria in the colon, leading to optimal digestive health and improved immunity to common illnesses. Other 'prebiotic foods' include artichokes, salsify, oats, leeks, onions, wholemeal bread, porridge and Jerusalem artichokes.
Breakfast eaters are slimmer
This may sound odd, especially as attempting to lose weight is one of the most common reasons for missing breakfast. However, evidence suggests that skipping breakfast makes it harder to lose weight and keep it off. Eating breakfast helps to kick-start your metabolism (the rate at which your body burns calories), which is usually sluggish after a night of sleep. This also helps to balance food intake throughout the day, making overeating less likely.
Breakfast eaters are happier
It's true - eating breakfast can positively influence your morning mood and help to reduce stress. Taking as little as five minutes to prepare for the day with toast or a bowl of cereal really ensures a more positive start.
So, no more excuses - set that alarm clock a few minutes earlier and really give yourself a healthy head start in the mornings.
