"A mother's hustle and bustle is real, but skipping a breakfast is a risk to health" — Dr. Nana Achiaa Ankrah

Ghanaian mothers carry numerous responsibilities, but ensuring a healthy home through the preparation of nutritious meals remains one of the most important roles for every mother.

According to Dr Nana Achiaa Ankrah, an Agro Food Expert, mothers already shoulder significant responsibilities, and skipping breakfast only makes the burden heavier because of the health consequences associated with missing the first meal of the day.

Dr Ankrah underscored the importance of treating breakfast as non-negotiable, describing it as one of the simplest ways to protect energy levels, mood and long-term health.

She explained that breakfast is essential for mothers because it provides steady energy and stamina.

According to her, after 8 to 10 hours of sleep without food, the body and brain are low on glucose, and a balanced breakfast helps restore blood sugar levels, reducing the likelihood of experiencing a mid-morning energy crash while managing children, work and household duties.

Dr Ankrah, who is the Founder of Arise Foods Limited, also indicated that eating breakfast supports metabolism and weight management.

She explained that eating in the morning helps to kickstart the body’s metabolism.

Without breakfast, she noted, the body is more likely to retain calories later in the day, increasing the chances of overeating during lunch.

She added that for mothers managing postpartum weight or general health, a breakfast rich in protein and fibre helps improve satiety and maintain blood sugar control.

The Agro Food Expert further stated that breakfast lays a strong nutritional foundation for the entire family, noting that mothers often influence the eating habits of their children.

“When you eat breakfast, kids are more likely to eat it too. You’re also better able to meet micronutrient needs including iron, calcium, and B vitamins, which are critical if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or recovering from pregnancy,” she stated.

Dr Ankrah also stressed the importance of breakfast for both children and adults, particularly in relation to brain function.

She observed that children who eat breakfast tend to demonstrate better memory, concentration and academic performance, while adults also benefit through improved decision making, productivity and problem-solving abilities.

The Arise Foods CEO further explained that eating breakfast regularly contributes to better mood regulation.

According to her, low blood sugar levels can lead to irritability and increased stress, while breakfast helps stabilise the body and mind.

She added that regular breakfast consumption also provides long-term health benefits by lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and nutrient deficiencies among mothers.

Breakfast, she said, also strengthens the immune system, which is particularly important for mothers who are often relied upon to care for family members when they fall ill.

For busy mornings, Dr Ankrah advised Ghanaian mothers to consider simple breakfast options such as overnight oats with fruit, boiled eggs with whole grain bread, or organic cereal meals from Arise Foods.

“Taking even a small portion of food for breakfast is far better than skipping it entirely because it serves as fuel for the body just like a vehicle needs fuel to operate,” she advised.

Dr Ankrah concluded by noting that when mothers eat breakfast, the entire household benefits through calmer mornings and better health outcomes, while wishing all Ghanaian mothers the very best in their endeavours.