Is Skipping Breakfast Healthy or Dangerous?
Some swear by eating breakfast every day, while reportedly stars like Beyonce and Hugh Jackman skip it altogether. So it is healthy or dangerous to not have the first meal of the day?
The Doctors have a Big Breakfast Debate with cardiologist Dr. Joel Kahn and certified nutrition consultant Dr. Lori Shemek -- who both advocate for skipping breakfast -- and cardiologist Dr. Nieca Goldberg and nutritionist Robert Ferguson -- who both believe skipping the first meal of the day is unhealthy.
Watch: Is Your Breakfast Cereal Unhealthy?
Dr. Goldberg says a recent study found that those who skipped breakfast had an early buildup of plaque in their arteries. She also cites other studies which have shown that breakfast skippers weigh more and have impulsive snacking behavior. Nutritionist Robert feels not having breakfast is "ludicrous" and says eating breakfast will help boost your metabolism.
Dr. Kahn feels that fasting and internment fasting can help with weight loss, the risk of heart disease and diabetes. He explains that he fasts for 5 days a month and it has dropped his weight by 25 pounds in 5 months. Dr. Shemak notes that a "nutrient dense diet" is key when fasting.
Watch: How to Get Your Fiber at Breakfast
ER physician Dr. Travis Stork says, "Healthy eating centers around eating healthy food" and The Doctors encourage anyone who is considering a major change in their diet or wanting to fast to consult with your medical professional.
One area where the panel does agree is that most of us eat too many calories and we eat too many empty calories. Dr. Travis adds, "It's more about what you eat than when you eat and how much of it you eat... just make sure you what you are doing when it comes to your health is safe and discuss it with your doctor."
