Eating Breakfast Later and Later? That Could Be an ‘Early Warning Sign’ That Something’s Wrong

Eating Breakfast Later Could Be an ‘Early Warning Sign’

Researchers have discovered a potential link between having breakfast later in the day and declining health as individuals age. This correlation could serve as a warning sign prompting individuals to seek medical advice.

A study conducted by researchers from Mass General Brigham analysed the habits of nearly 3,000 adults ranging from 42 to 94 years old over a period exceeding 20 years. The findings revealed that the habit of eating breakfast at a later time as an individual ages could indicate a higher risk of mortality.

According to the researchers, alterations in meal timings, particularly delaying breakfast, could be an indicator of broader health shifts in older adults. These changes could have implications on morbidity and longevity.

Lead author of the study, Hassan Dashti, highlighted the significance of monitoring mealtime routines, especially breakfast timing, in assessing the overall health status of older adults. This could potentially be utilised as an early indicator to delve into underlying physical and mental health issues.

The researchers observed that as individuals grew older, there was a tendency for them to push back their breakfast and dinner timings. Moreover, those with more health issues or a genetic predisposition for staying up late tended to have later meal times.

Dr. Altug Didikoglu, senior author of the study, emphasised the importance of these findings in shedding light on how meal timings evolve with age and their relationship to health and longevity in older individuals. The results underscored the notion that breakfast, being the first meal of the day, holds significant relevance, especially for older adults.

The study’s publication in Communications Medicine highlighted the potential for mealtime adjustments, particularly delayed breakfast, to be linked to health challenges and an increased risk of mortality among older individuals. These findings offer valuable insights into the critical role of meal timing in assessing older adults’ health status.

As breakfast is commonly referred to as the most important meal of the day, this research emphasises the need to pay attention to mealtime routines, particularly in older age groups. By detecting shifts in meal timings, individuals and healthcare professionals could potentially identify early signs of health issues and intervene accordingly.

In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of meal timings, particularly breakfast, in gauging the health status of older adults. By recognising the potential implications of delaying breakfast, individuals can take proactive steps towards maintaining their health and well-being. These findings offer a valuable perspective on the significance of mealtime habits in relation to overall health and longevity.