What effect can skipping breakfast have on an individual's metabolism?

Skipping breakfast can lead to an increased reliance on fat as a fuel source. When an individual does not consume food after an overnight fast, the body may turn to fat reserves for energy as glycogen stores become limited. This transition to fat as a primary fuel source can promote fat oxidation, particularly in the absence of readily available carbohydrates.

While the relationship between meal frequency and metabolism is complex and can vary among individuals, intermittent fasting or meal skipping has been shown in some studies to influence the way the body utilizes fat for energy during periods of fasting. Therefore, for those who skip breakfast, the metabolic adaptation may increase the body’s efficiency in burning fat for fuel, particularly at rest or during lower-intensity physical activities.

Developing an understanding of metabolic responses to meal timing is crucial in sports nutrition, as it helps in creating tailored dietary strategies that suit individual goals and lifestyle habits.