Skipping breakfast is common amongst teenagers. Researchers concur that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Mahony et al.(2005). Breakfast provides important nutrients such as calcium, iron, protein, B group vitamins and fibre. The body needs these essential nutrients. Research shows that if these are absent at breakfast, they are less likely to be compensated for later in the day. Fruit and vegetables are good sources of vitamins and minerals.
There is a tremendous growth spurt that occurs in adolescence, which increases the demands for energy, protein and nutrients. The total nutrient needs are higher during adolescence than any other time in the lifecycle. Adequate nutrition is necessary for growth. Stang J, …show more content…
According to Tapper.et.al. (2007) there is significant positive cognitive effect on students who eat breakfast compared to those students who skip breakfast. When a person sleeps the blood glucagon level increases, the liver produces glucose by converting glycogen into glucose. This occurs until 25% of the glycogen stores are depleted.(Hill, 1995).Skipping breakfast after a long night sleep, the body does not have enough nutrients and energy to start and to continue through the day. When one’s blood sugar is low, their body’s releases more glucagon, which breaks down glycogen stores in order to make glucose in order to raise blood sugar levels. When these stores are empty, your body will start breaking down muscle. A nutritious diet begins with breakfast, the most important meal of the day, which helps to refuel your body. After an overnight fast, breakfast gives you nutrients and energy to kick-start your day and provides energy to carry out physical and mental activities. Breakfast has a very important bearing on performance at school and on your concentration. A student's metabolic demands and cognitive functioning throughout the morning …show more content…
Obesity is a teenager’s nightmare, approx. 17% or 12.5 million children and adolescents (2-19yrs) are obese, according to data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey on the centres for Disease Control and Prevention website, (2008). According to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, (2008) some health problems related to obesity in teens include heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and some forms of cancer. Obesity is a serious matter that can affect your life span, cause anxiety, depression, mood swings and emotional and social