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Top Harvard doctor shares 7 common breakfast mistakes that are harming the gut health

etimes.in | Last updated on - Oct 26, 2025, 11:00 IST
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1/8

Importance of breakfast

Breakfast as the first meal of the day should be rich and healthy, but that doesn’t mean it should be calorie-dense. It is suggested to evenly distribute your daily calorie intake in different meals. As per nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar, skipping breakfast is not a healthy practice. It often leads to consuming more calories later in the day. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford universities, recently shared a carousel post where he explained 7 common breakfast mistakes that are damaging the gut heath. Take a look.

2/8

Skipping breakfast

As per Dr Saurabh, skipping breakfast altogether is not right. Long gaps can lead to acid buildup and result in sluggish gut motility.
What to do: He states, if not fasting intentionally, eat within 1 hour of waking.

3/8

Coffee on an empty stomach

As per Saurabh, it boosts stomach acid, leads to reflux and nausea.
What to do: He states, drinking a glass of water before your coffee and having a light snack like nuts or a banana.

4/8

Sugary breakfast cereals & granola


These are loaded with refined sugar, which can lead to blood sugar spike and gut inflammation.

What to do: One can add oats, chia seeds, and berries to a healthy breakfast.

5/8

High-fat bulletproof coffee trend

As per Saurabh, it has no fiber or protein and results in poor satiety and causes acid reflux.

What to do: It is suggested to add protein and fiber to breakfast for a balanced start.

6/8

Breakfast on the go every day

Dr Saurabh states that eating in stress mode and less digestive enzyme release in morning results in bloating.

What to do: Dr Saurabh suggests sitting down and chewing slowly for better digestion.


7/8

Overdoing juices

As per Saurabh, too much fruit sugar and no fiber in fruit juices can lead to gut fermentation.

What to do: He recommends using whole fruit or blend fruit and veggies for a balanced smoothie.

8/8

Ignoring hydration in the morning

As per Dr Saurabh, your gut needs water to move things along.
What to do: Start your day with a glass of water before anything else


All Images Courtesy: istock

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is meant for general knowledge only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new routine.

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