Impact of Breakfast Skipping on Functional Capacity and Productivity among Office Workers with Standard Working Hours (9 AM–5 PM)

Abstract Background: Breakfast skipping is a prevalent behavior among working adults, yet its impact on workplace productivity in 9–5 office workers remain underexplored. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of breakfast skipping and its association with productivity, cognitive function, and well-being in this population. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 540 full-time office workers. Data were collected via an online questionnaire assessing breakfast habits, self-rated productivity (WHO-HPQ), presenteeism, and energy levels. A subset (n=312) completed an objective psychomotor vigilance task (PVT). Habitual breakfast skipping was defined as skipping breakfast ≥3 workdays/week. Multivariable regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, sleep duration, and caffeine intake. Results: The prevalence of habitual breakfast skipping was 39%. The most common reasons were lack of time (63%) and absence of morning hunger (41%). Habitual skippers reported significantly lower morning productivity (mean score 6.2 vs. 7.4, p<0.001) and higher rates of presenteeism (28% vs. 14%, p=0.002) compared to regular consumers. They were also more likely to experience low energy before lunch (52% vs. 29%, OR=2.45). Objectively, skippers demonstrated slower reaction times on the PVT (median 345 ms vs. 310 ms, p=0.01). These associations remained significant after adjusting for confounders. Conclusion: Breakfast skipping is common among office workers and is significantly associated with reduced productivity, increased fatigue, and poorer cognitive performance. Workplace wellness initiatives should prioritize promoting regular breakfast consumption to enhance employee health and organizational efficiency.