Does Skipping Breakfast Worsen Diabetes? Here’s What Experts Say
Avoid processed or sugary foods, as they can affect metabolism and lead to sharp rise in blood sugar levels.
Breakfast is the most crucial meal of the day, particularly for people with diabetes and other chronic illnesses, according to experts. A nutritious breakfast is crucial for diabetics to maintain energy, balance blood sugar levels, and lower their risk of long-term issues. But what happens if you don’t have breakfast?
Understanding the substantial effects of skipping breakfast on your body is essential for long-term health and well-being. According to diabetes educator and consultant dietician Kanikka Malhotra, skipping breakfast can lead to several problems for diabetics, from elevated insulin resistance to long-term health hazards.
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In a recent interview with the Indian Express, the dietician highlighted the potential health risks of skipping breakfast for diabetic individuals.
Health Effects Of Skipping Breakfast For Diabetes Patients
- Increased insulin resistance: Malhotra said that studies have shown skipping breakfast can worsen insulin levels, which makes controlling blood sugar levels even more difficult. One of the main characteristics of type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, which impairs the body’s capacity to use insulin efficiently. If left untreated, this illness can affect the course of diabetes and increase the risk of related problems, including heart issues.
- Problem of blood sugar regulation: Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, might result from skipping breakfast. This is a result of the body fasting for an extended period during the night. Postprandial, or after-meal, blood sugar levels can rise when the morning meal is skipped because future meals may cause a stronger glucose reaction. Glycaemic variability is made worse over time by this pattern, which makes it difficult for people who want to regulate their blood sugar levels.
- Long-term hazards to health: According to Malhotra, skipping breakfast on a regular basis has wider effects. Persistently elevated blood sugar levels raise the chance of the development of type 2 diabetes.
- Organ damage: Long-term hyperglycemia is associated with consequences like retinopathy (visual problems), nephropathy (kidney damage), and neuropathy (damage to the nerves).
- Effects on the mind: The impacts extend beyond the physical realm. Malhotra claimed that skipping breakfast can result in more hunger pangs, resulting in overeating. This will also lead to mood swings and irritability caused by blood sugar fluctuations.
Nutritious Breakfast Tips
According to the dietician, people with diabetes should prioritise eating a well-balanced breakfast to maximise blood sugar control. One can include the following things in their regular diet:
- Whole grains and oats are examples of low glycaemic index (GI) carbohydrates that release energy gradually.
- Lean proteins that help control blood sugar include tofu, yoghurt and eggs.
- Nuts, seeds and avocados are good sources of healthy fats that provide you long-lasting energy.
- Foods high in fibre, like chia seeds or vegetables, also aid in satiety and digestion.
- Avoid processed or sugary foods as they can affect metabolism and lead to a sharp rise in blood sugar.
Including a healthy and balanced breakfast in daily meals is an easy yet effective way to boost energy levels and to regulate blood sugar. Diabetes can be managed by a diabetes-friendly breakfast that consists of whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats and fibre.
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