Korede Abdullah in Lagos
A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging suggests that a nutritious breakfast can play a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health.
Researchers found that consuming 20-30% of daily energy needs at breakfast can help reduce cardiometabolic risk factors in older adults.
The study, conducted at the Hospital del Mar Research Institute in Spain, involved 383 participants aged 55-75 with overweight or obesity.
The researchers tracked the participants’ progress for 36 months, monitoring their breakfast habits and cardiovascular health.
According to the study, eating either less than 20% or more than 30% of daily calories at breakfast can lead to increased waist circumference, higher triglycerides, and lower HDL cholesterol.
Additionally, consuming low-quality breakfast foods can also negatively impact cardiovascular health.
Experts emphasize the importance of a balanced breakfast, including lean proteins, fiber, and healthy fats.
“A quality breakfast should include lean proteins, fiber, and healthy fats,” says Michelle Routhenstein, a registered dietitian.
“This combination helps reduce atherogenic LDL cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar, and lower inflammation — key factors in cardiovascular health.”, he added.
Cardiologist Jayne Morgan, MD, vice president of medical affairs at Hello Heart, notes that breakfast is particularly important for people with diabetes, as regular calorie intake can improve insulin sensitivity and maintain blood glucose levels.
She also highlights the importance of portion control and physical activity throughout the day.
“The quality and choice of foods is extremely important,” Morgan also affirmed. “Choosing unprocessed foods, and selecting fruits and grains are critical factors.
Portion size and discretion also play a role, as well as keeping active and mirroring those same eating habits throughout the day.
The study’s findings suggest that a healthy breakfast can have a significant impact on cardiovascular health, and experts agree that making informed food choices and maintaining a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
