Predictors of adolescent breakfast consumption: longitudinal findings from Project EAT

To identify predictors of breakfast consumption among adolescents.

Five-year longitudinal study Project EAT (Eating Among Teens). Baseline surveys were completed in Minneapolis-St. Paul schools and by mail at follow-up by youth (n = 800) transitioning from middle to high school. Linear regression models examined associations between baseline predictors and follow-up breakfast consumption.

Frequency of breakfast consumption at follow-up was positively associated with baseline breakfast consumption and inversely associated with baseline weight concerns (P < .01). Perceptions of being too rushed in the morning to eat a healthful breakfast were associated with lower breakfast frequency 5 years later among girls (P < .01). After adjusting for baseline breakfast consumption, none of the associations with predictor variables remained statistically significant.

Early adolescence is an important time to establish regular breakfast consumption. Interventions aimed at increasing breakfast consumption should include messages about healthful weight management and ideas for quick, healthful breakfasts.