Breakfast, exercise, and sleep tied to stronger stress resilience
A study of about 400 college students at Binghamton University found that regular breakfast, exercise, adequate sleep, and fish oil use were tied to higher psychological flexibility, which supports adapting to stress. Poor sleep and unhealthy eating were associated with lower flexibility and resilience.
Researchers at Binghamton University surveyed roughly 400 college students anonymously about diet, sleep, exercise, and other routines. The team included Lina Begdache, Jason Cherry, and Alexander J. Talkachov. They examined how these habits related to psychological flexibility—the capacity to shift thoughts, feelings, and behavior when situations change.
Students who ate breakfast at least five days weekly, exercised for 20 minutes or more, slept adequately, or took fish oil several times weekly tended to show greater flexibility and stress coping. Those sleeping under six hours or eating more fast food generally reported lower levels.
Findings may encourage students and educators to view daily routines as practical supports for mental resilience. Campus wellness programs could emphasize breakfast access, sleep education, exercise, and stress-management skills. Employers and families might also consider how schedules affect sleep and meals. However, the study is correlational and limited to about 400 college students, so effects on broader populations remain uncertain.