Regularly skipping the morning meal among young people can intensify signs of depression and impair concentration, according to a study by Hong Kong researchers published in Frontiers in Psychiatry.

The Hong Kong Youth Epidemiological Study involved 3,154 adolescents and young adults. Approximately 15% of participants reported never eating breakfast, while 33% ate it daily. Those who skipped breakfast more often experienced worsening depressive and anxiety symptoms, as well as difficulties in social and academic functioning.

Researchers attribute these effects to diminished attention: regular breakfast skippers showed greater problems with concentration and increased impulsivity. Further analysis revealed that reduced attentional capacity accounted for over one-third of the link between skipping breakfast and heightened depressive symptoms.

Earlier, experts warned about which types of coffee are best avoided on an empty stomach.