In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

The Benefits of Breakfast

By: Sue Gilbert

The alarm never went off, your late for work or the kids can't find their homework, and your dog needs to be fed - Time for breakfast? No way!

According to a 1987 report, one out of four women between the ages of 25 and 37 regularly skips breakfast.

Why You Should Eat Breakfast

Numerous scientific studies performed over the past 20 years have shown the following reasons for eating this important meal:

  1. Improves Overall Nutrition: Eating breakfast improves the total daily nutrient intake. A simple breakfast of cereal, milk and fruit often provides the greatest amounts of calcium, B6, riboflavin, folate and iron.
  2. Improves Ability to Concentrate: Children who eat breakfast have shown greater improvements in standardized test scores and increased ability to concentrate in class; they also are more alert and creative. Likewise, adults are better able to perform in an office or work environment if they have taken the time to eat breakfast.
  3. Improves Ability to Control Weight: A 1994 report showed that in two-parent families, children who skip breakfast are almost twice as likely to be overweight as children who eat breakfast. Many adults skip breakfast as a form of weight control. Unfortunately, this is a weight loss program that is doomed to failure. Skipping meals sets up extreme hunger patterns later in the day, resulting in excess calorie intake.

page 1 of 5 | Next Page

 

advertisement

Advice from Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Helpful tips and information on weight loss

Get answers from an expert
advertisement

YourTotalHealth      

Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community  |  

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment  |  NeverSayDiet

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2009 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.