Jul 28, 2025

8 Common Breakfast Habits That Spike Insulin Levels

Aanya Mehta

Eating Only Refined Carbs

White bread, sugary cereals, or biscuits cause rapid glucose spikes, followed by energy crashes and more hunger.

Source: Google Images

Having Coffee on an Empty Stomach

Caffeine first thing can raise cortisol and insulin sensitivity, especially without food to buffer it.

Source: Google Images

Skipping Protein

A breakfast lacking in protein (like only fruit or toast) can cause blood sugar to rise quickly and fall soon after.

Source: Google Images

Adding too Much Sugar to your Tea/Coffee

Extra sugar in morning beverages silently increases your insulin load, especially when paired with carbs.

Source: Google Images

Starting with Treats/ Deserts

Having pastries, pancakes with syrup, or halwa as breakfast? These dessert like meals spike glucose and insulin rapidly.

Source: Google Images

Drinking Packaged Juices or Smoothies

Even "healthy" fruit juices or bottled smoothies are high in fructose and lack fiber causing an insulin surge.

Source: Google Images

Overeating 'Healthy' Add-ons

Too much honey, peanut butter, granola, or dry fruits can overload your meal with sugars and starches.

Source: Google Images

Delaying Breakfast for Too Long

Waiting too long to eat after waking can lead to cortisol induced insulin resistance and energy dips.

Source: Google Images

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