Stress, breakfast cereal consumption and susceptibility to upper respiratory tract illnesses

Two diary studies were conducted to examine the effects of stress and consumption of breakfast on the incidence and severity of upper respiratory tract illnesses. Both studies showed that negative life events were associated with the occurrence of URTIs. Breakfast consumption and consumption of breakfast cereal were also associated with illness incidence and severity. The effects of stress and breakfast consumption were found to be independent. Further research is now required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of breakfast cereal consumption on the occurrence of upper respiratory tract illnesses.