Eager Loading

Eager Loading in Laravel allows you to preload related data for models to optimize database queries. This reduces the number of queries executed, preventing the N+1 query problem.

Origin

Eager Loading is part of Eloquent ORM and was introduced to optimize database interactions by fetching related data in advance.

Why is it important?

1. Reduces Query Count: Combines multiple queries into a single, efficient query.
2. Improves Performance: Speeds up page load times by minimizing database interactions.
3. Prevents N+1 Problem: Eliminates redundant queries for related data.

Best Practices

1. Only Load What's Needed: Avoid overloading queries with unnecessary relationships.
2. Use Conditional Loading: Apply constraints to related data queries when needed.
3. Combine with Pagination: Eager load data efficiently in paginated results.

Example in Action

Eager load a relationship:

$posts = Post::with('comments')->get();

Apply conditions to the relationship:

$posts = Post::with(['comments' => function ($query) {
    $query->where('approved', true);
}])->get();

Eager Loading ensures efficient database queries, reducing response times and improving application performance.