Skipping breakfast is associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome

Scientists analyzed the data of almost 118 thousand people and revealed a pattern: regularly skipping breakfast increases the likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its key components — abdominal obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia and elevated blood fat levels.

Metabolic syndrome is a condition in which the body loses sensitivity to insulin and accumulates fat in the abdominal area. It is associated with a high risk of diabetes, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. The morning meal provides up to a third of the daily energy and triggers key metabolic processes, supporting cognitive activity and blood sugar balance.

Researchers from Japan, the United States, Korea, and Iran conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of nine observational studies. The results showed that people who skip breakfast have an average 10% higher risk of metabolic syndrome, and a 17% higher chance of abdominal obesity.

The association between skipping breakfast and hypertension was also significant, especially in men. Women, on the contrary, sometimes showed a weaker dependence, which may be due to hormonal metabolic patterns.

In addition, those who did not eat breakfast were more likely to have elevated blood glucose and cholesterol levels. This indicates that a regular morning meal helps maintain the stability of metabolic processes and prevents the accumulation of harmful lipids.

The authors emphasize that all the studies reviewed were observational, which means that it is impossible to completely exclude the influence of other factors — income level, nutrition quality or lifestyle. Nevertheless, the cumulative data convince us that a simple and affordable way to prevent metabolic disorders is not to give up breakfast.

Even a light but balanced morning meal can support energy, cognitive activity, and heart health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases in the future.