A recent study published in September 2025 has highlighted the importance of eating breakfast on time. The research suggests that delaying breakfast may negatively impact health and could even shorten lifespan.
According to the study, which observed nearly 3,000 participants in the United Kingdom, eating breakfast late increases the risk of premature death. For every hour of delay in eating breakfast, the risk of early death increased by 8% to 11%.
Why breakfast timing matters
The researchers explained that while eating breakfast early does not immediately add years to life, maintaining a regular routine of early morning meals helps keep blood sugar and body weight stable. Consistency is key for long-term health benefits.
Factors like genetics, laziness in preparing meals, health conditions, and irregular sleep patterns were found to influence breakfast timing.
Associate Professor Robert Mankowski from the University of Alabama, who was not part of the study, said that it is still unclear whether late breakfast itself is the cause of health risks or if it is connected to aging and lifestyle habits.
Why eating early may be better
Although the study did not define the “perfect time” for breakfast, many health experts recommend eating within 1–2 hours of waking up. This provides the body with the energy needed to stay active throughout the day.
Dr. Angel Planells, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, explained that eating early in the morning helps maintain metabolic balance, stable blood sugar, and a healthy body clock.
Research also shows that eating breakfast earlier improves the release of GLP-1 hormone, which helps control appetite, supports digestion, and stabilizes blood glucose levels.
The role of consistency
Experts emphasize that the best time for breakfast is not just about “early” but also about being consistent. Eating at the same time every day supports the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm), which is linked to better focus, lower risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and neurological issues.
Professor Matthew Landry from the University of California added that when people eat breakfast at the same time daily, the body learns to function more efficiently, signaling that it is time to wake up and be active.
Should you start eating earlier?
Health experts recommend eating within two hours of waking up. If eating right away feels difficult, giving the body 60–90 minutes before starting breakfast can help. The key is to avoid waiting too long.
While not feeling hungry immediately after waking up is normal, delaying breakfast too much may harm long-term health.
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🔎 Note: This article is based on published medical studies. Readers should consult their doctor or nutritionist before making lifestyle changes.
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