Parenting 

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Is skipping breakfast a big deal?

Skipping breakfast may be part of the problem. I think that breakfast is one of the most important contributions that you can make to your academic success. That's because your brain, to operate at top level, needs a constant supply of glucose (the type of sugar found in your blood), because it can't store any. This is unlike muscle, which can hold glucose in reserve.

After nine or more hours of not eating, you are in a fasting condition. Blood glucose levels are very low and need to be replenished. To keep up mental work requires a large turnover of brain glucose. If glucose levels are inadequate, the brain can't do the work as well. Breakfast helps to replenish blood glucose levels.

There are multiple scientific studies that show that eating breakfast improves academic performance, including improved maths scores, better working memory and increased verbal skills. The studies also show an improved attitude towards school, as well as less depression, anxiety and hyperactivity.

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