Why do teenagers skip breakfast

Larson said the results of this study demonstrate the potential for grab-and-go breakfast programs to contribute to improved nutrition and support the academic development of teens. She recommends that parents of high school students, school professionals, and public health leaders advocate for the implementation of such programs to increase social support for eating breakfast at school and access to the School Breakfast Program.

Contact Delaware St. An international study reported that teens who skip breakfast are more likely to be obese than adolescents who ate breakfast. Skipping the first meal of the day does not help them lose weight. The research study confirmed that obesity in teens is not just an American issue. Many teenagers across the globe think that if they skip breakfast then they will consume fewer calories.

But research has proven that, in fact, the opposite could be correct. Usually skipping the first meal of the day contributes to many unhealthy habits and behaviors. This, in turn, can cause premature health issues, like cardiovascular diseases and Type 2 diabetes.

Regardless of gender, environment or sleep habits skipping breakfast as a teenager is associated with a body memory that will follow these kids for the rest of their life. As their bodies grow into adulthood, the amount and kinds of calories form a pattern for energy use and storage as they mature. A healthy, early meal including dairy products, whole grain cereals, a protein source and fruit first thing in the morning supersedes a fast food menu on the way to school.

Deep fried snacks, pastries, soda pop and other sugary drinks are all directly associated with the development of obesity. This may be the most compelling reason to enjoy breakfast before a long school day. Warm up with a hearty bowl of oatmeal on a cool morning or hydrate with sweet chunks of fresh fruit and yogurt when it's warm outside.

With so many options on the table, you're sure to find something that works — peanut butter and jelly on whole-grain toast, whole fruits, eggs, yogurt or last night's leftovers … what's not to love? Encourage eating breakfast daily at home or school and make it easy. Grab-and-go meals such as a waffle with peanut butter, a boiled egg and fruit, or homemade oatmeal bars make eating breakfast a breeze.

Though it may take time, helping your teen eat a nutritious breakfast today will build healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.

She wants to lose weight. Teen girls, especially, are likely to see skipping breakfast as a relatively painless way to lose weight.

Kids do have to get up a little earlier to eat breakfast, and at an age when many have trouble falling asleep at night and even more trouble waking up, an extra 10 minutes in the sack might seem a fair trade.

What they need to understand is that lack of food will make their fatigue last longer. Parents can help by making breakfast quick and easy :. Have it ready for him when he gets up. A muffin, slice of pizza or peanut butter and banana sandwich can all be munched on the way to school. Add hot chocolate in an insulated takeout mug for a hit of calcium.