Meal Timing

Definition

Meal timing refers to the scheduling of meals throughout the day, which can impact overall health, energy levels, and weight management.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Meal timing is the strategic planning of eating intervals, which considers the body's circadian rhythms, insulin sensitivity, and nutrient absorption rates. Research suggests that optimizing meal timing can influence metabolism, hormonal balance, and overall health outcomes.

Benefits

• May aid in weight management
• Could improve energy levels and athletic performance
• Supports better nutrient absorption
• Helps regulate blood sugar levels
• Might enhance metabolic health

Examples

• Eating breakfast shortly after waking up
• Consuming smaller meals every 3 to 4 hours
• Timing high-protein meals around workouts
• Avoiding late-night eating

Additional Information

• Importance: Meal timing is important for synchronizing with natural body cycles and maximizing the benefits of a healthy diet.

Related Terms

• Nutrient Timing
• Intermittent Fasting
• Circadian Rhythms
• Metabolism
• Glycemic Index

References

• The Role of Meal Timing in Health and Disease
• Impact of Meal Frequency and Timing on Health