Skipping Breakfast And Eating Late Linked To Increased Osteoporosis Risk: Study

A recent study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society has found that skipping breakfast and eating late dinners may increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. The study, led by Dr. Hiroki Nakajima from Nara Medical University in Japan, aimed to investigate the link between lifestyle habits, including diet, and the risk of osteoporotic fractures. Eating late at night and skipping breakfast disrupt the body’s natural metabolic rhythms, which can negatively affect bone metabolism and overall health. These habits may lead to poorer nutrient absorption and increased inflammation, both of which are harmful to bone strength and density. Researchers analyzed a large cohort of 927,130 adults from a Japanese health claims database, consisting of 45.3% males and 54.7% females. They examined the association between various lifestyle factors—such as smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, insufficient sleep, and eating habits—and the diagnosis of osteoporotic fractures in the hip, forearm, vertebra, and humerus. The findings revealed that individuals with unhealthy habits, including skipping breakfast and having late dinners, were more likely to be diagnosed with osteoporosis. These eating behaviors were also linked with other risk factors, such as lack of exercise, smoking, and poor sleep. Dr. Nakajima explained, “Preventing osteoporosis and fractures requires not only healthy eating habits but a broader effort to improve overall lifestyle behaviors.” The study highlights the importance of considering diet timing alongside other lifestyle factors in osteoporosis prevention strategies. This research adds new insights into how dietary patterns intersect with osteoporotic risk, emphasizing the need for holistic health approaches beyond traditional factors like exercise and smoking cessation. Maintaining regular meal times along with a balanced lifestyle could reduce the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and associated fractures.