An old adage – “eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper” – might need some revision because it could not only help you stay healthy but also aid weight loss.
According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, when you eat could have a bigger impact than what you eat.
The study, which was conducted on all women between 18 and 45 ages, compared the results of weight loss between two groups of dieters, who were asked to eat the same number of calories on a daily basis.
Researchers found that those who had their daily main meal at lunch shed about 3 pounds more than those who ate their main meal at dinner. The group that ate their main meal at lunch lost around 12.5 pounds over 12 weeks, while those who ate their main meal at dinner lost 9.5 pounds.
The researchers also found that those who had their big meal at lunch had an improvement in their insulin sensitivity, preventing diabetes.
The scientists explained that more studies are required to determine whether these findings can be maintained and whether they can be applied to men as well. However, they said this simple lifestyle change could make a difference.
In addition, the study found that eating your main meal at lunch would help you avoid typical mid-afternoon hunger, which can make them eat junk foods, snacks, or candies. For many people, it could be a challenge to bring a more substantial meal, especially those who are at work. In such a case, you can make a bit of adjustment by filling your plate with healthy foods, such as salad and veggies, at your dinner.
