It is essential that breakfast every morning has good nutritional value. In addition, it should provide 20 to 30% of daily energy. And according to a recent study, they do reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A study conducted by the Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM) shows that a quality breakfast with the right amount of energy reduce the risk significantly of cardiovascular disease.
The study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging, followed 383 participants in the PREDIMED-Plus project for three years. The participants, between 55 and 75 years old overweight or obesitywere evaluated for various cardiovascular risk factors.
“Breakfast is the most important meal of the daybut it matters what and how you eat. Eating controlled amounts and ensuring good nutritional composition are crucial,” explains Álvaro Hernáez, IMIM researcher and author of the work.
Key findings about breakfast
Participants who consumed 20-30% of their daily energy intake at breakfast showed this better results for various risk factors. In addition, these participants had a 2-3.5% lower body mass index and a 2-4% smaller waist circumference. A quality breakfast is associated with a 1.5% smaller waist circumference, 4% lower triglycerides and 3% higher HDL cholesterol
A significant reduction in triglyceride levels (9-18%) and an increase in HDL cholesterol (4-8.5%) were also observed. An optimal first meal – containing sufficient amounts of protein, high-quality fats, fiber and minerals such as potassium and iron, avoiding sugar and saturated fats too much – is associated with a 1.5% smaller waist circumference, 4% fewer triglycerides and 3% more HDL cholesterol.
Health consequences
This study provides strong evidence that promoting healthy breakfast habits can contribute to healthy aging. by reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome and associated chronic diseases, thus improving quality of life.
“Both adequacy and energy quality are critical prevent cardiovascular risk”, emphasizes Montse Fitó, coordinator of the IMIM Cardiovascular Risk and Nutrition Research Group.
Since it is the most important meal of the day, it is essential that you eat a… nutritious breakfast and provide energy, this helps us have good health and significantly improve our quality of life.