Myths, Presumptions, and Facts about Obesity

Abstract

To the Editor: Casazza et al. (Jan. 31 issue)¹ state that the common notion that “regularly eating (versus skipping) breakfast is protective against obesity” because people who skip breakfast may overeat later in the day is currently nothing more than a presumption. However, the evidence they cite in support of this statement is more complex than they intimate. Examination of this evidence implies overcompensation (with increased food consumption later in the day after having skipped breakfast), but also undercompensation depending on timing of meals.²,³ In addition, Casazza and colleagues do not acknowledge the short-term nature of the available experimental . . .