Many of us tend to skip meals, whether breakfast or dinner. But is skipping one better than the other? According to endurance athlete Malhar Ganla, not having dinner is preferred over skipping breakfast. “Stop skipping breakfast. It is of no use. Your body has woken up hungry. It’s had 8-10 hours of fasting after dinner, and your blood sugar is running low. So, there is no fuel in the system. By 1 pm, it is going to first press panic, by five, the second panic, and by 8, the real damage will occur at dinner with a lavish spread and overeating,” Ganla wrote on Instagram.
“You will eat like a buffet with 1500 calories and a sweet. It’s better that in the morning, you top load with protein,” Ganla added.
So, is it better to skip dinner than breakfast?
Skipping dinner rather than breakfast can have potential benefits, but it largely depends on a person’s lifestyle, health status, and daily routine, said Divya Malik, senior nutritionist, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Delhi.
“Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day because it provides the necessary energy to kickstart metabolism and fuel the body after an overnight fast. Skipping breakfast can lead to fatigue, poor concentration, and increased hunger later in the day, often resulting in unhealthy food choices,” said Malik.
Don’t end up eating a lot (Photo: Freepik)
On the other hand, skipping dinner can help reduce calorie intake and improve digestion, as eating late at night is associated with weight gain, acid reflux, and poor sleep quality. “However, not everyone should skip dinner,” stressed Malik.
Pregnant women, children, and people with medical conditions like diabetes need consistent nourishment throughout the day. “For them, missing dinner may cause low energy levels and nutrient deficiencies,” said Malik.
If dinner is skipped, it’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid binge-eating the next day, mentioned Malik. “If consuming dinner, opt for a light, balanced meal, such as a salad with lean protein or a bowl of soup with whole grains,” said Malik.
How about people practicing intermittent fasting?
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People practicing intermittent fasting or trying to manage weight may benefit from skipping dinner, but it should be done under guidance to ensure nutrient adequacy.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
