A study from China has found that skipping breakfast may exacerbate the development of heart disease.
Intermittent fasting, which includes time-restricted eating (TRE), has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its metabolic benefits.
However, in a new study, researchers discovered that while reducing eating time can provide some benefits, the timing of food consumption throughout the day is very important.
Skipping Breakfast is Harmful
Zhang Jian, a co-author of the study, stated that dietary patterns similar to skipping breakfast or having breakfast too late can have long-term negative effects on health, depending on individual conditions.
Meanwhile, the habits of those who skip lunch or dinner are still harmful to the body, but to a lesser extent.
This is because the habit of skipping breakfast causes the epithelial cells in the intestines to adjust and increase important proteins for lipid absorption. As a result, they absorb too much lipid, which exacerbates the development of cardiovascular disease.
Many people have a habit of skipping breakfast and then combining it with lunch. However, science indicates that this habit can lead to many health repercussions.
Previously, many studies from the United States, China, and others have indicated that those who skip breakfast are at a higher risk of developing fatal cardiovascular diseases.
The hunger caused by skipping breakfast also creates unhealthy eating habits, affecting the body’s digestive process. This is one of the causes of gastrointestinal-related diseases.
Is Fasting Effective for Weight Loss?
Fasting and weight loss are two concepts that always go hand in hand. However, scientific studies suggest that this is not true for everyone. Accordingly, fasting is not always better than other weight loss methods.
Another concern is the binge eating that follows fasting. Some fasting experts agree that the benefits of weight loss can easily be undermined by overeating after a fasting period.
Days of fasting can also create a false sense of security, leading people to neglect healthy eating habits on non-fasting days.
Many nutrition experts also express concerns about intermittent fasting. They argue that this habit can lead to constant feelings of hunger and energy deficiencies that could be harmful.
According to Rania Batayneh, a nutrition expert from the University of Michigan, USA, if you want to practice intermittent fasting for about 12-13 hours, start in the evening by not eating later than 6-7 PM. This allows the metabolic process to receive the necessary nutrients throughout the day.