Dr. Manjari Chandra, Senior Consultant in Nutritional Medicine, states that breakfast is more a marketing concept than a biological necessity and advises listening to hunger signals rather than following rigid routines. She highlights that skipping breakfast can sometimes be healthier than consuming processed foods. While South Indian breakfasts are tasty and easy to digest, they tend to be high in carbohydrates. Cornflakes and many packaged muesli products, despite their healthy image, contain high amounts of sugar, starch, and sodium due to processing and marketing. Parathas with sabzi can be nutritious if made with whole wheat and fresh ingredients but remain high in carbs. Fruits are rich in nutrients but should be paired with protein to balance natural sugars. Boiled eggs are recommended for their protein and vitamins. Instant noodles are criticized for containing maida, artificial flavors, and chemicals, described as harmful. The healthiness of pancakes depends on ingredients, with lentil or ragi versions rated higher than maida-based ones with syrup. Dr. Chandra emphasizes that the nutritional balance of the first meal matters more than adhering to breakfast myths or marketing claims. (Updated 21 Aug 2025, 18:32 IST; source: link)