WASHINGTON — Dietary guidelines encourage everyone to start the day with breakfast, but a study last year from Columbia University is casting some doubt about whether those trying to lose weight should follow that advice.
Patients in the study were divided into three groups. For four weeks, one group was given oatmeal for breakfast; another was given frosted cornflakes, and the third group got nothing. The last group was the only group that saw people lose weight.
The federal dietary guidelines are being revised this year and there’s speculation that the advice about breakfast could be adjusted. The Washington Post reports that the dietary guidelines are important because they help determine what goes into school lunches and other federally funded programs. The guidelines are also looked to by millions for sound eating advice.
But not everyone is ready to give up on breakfast yet.
“You have to remember that nutrition is a new science and we have to really look at the old research, the new research, and lifestyle,” dietitian and nutritionist Keri Glassman tells The Today Show.
Glassman says for now, she’s sticking with breakfast, and will advise her clients to do the same.
“I would say for the majority of people out there, I still think it does so many good things for you. And there are so many benefits that I would recommend eating breakfast.”
It is, however, important to make good choices for that first meal of the day.
“You just need to eat the right types of foods that are going to keep you full and satisfied.”
Glassman suggests foods that are low in fat and high in protein, such as oatmeal and almonds.
