TIMED EATING
People who often skip meals, eat on the go, or late at night are less healthy than those who have regular meals sitting down and with others, an analysis of food habits has found. Eating at odd times disrupts your body clock – typically, a 24-hour cycle. This can put you at higher risk of obesity, metabolic syndrome and heart disease. Irregular sleeping, working overnight shifts or frequent travelling over time zones also mess up body timekeeping and increase levels of hunger hormones. Over time, it can result in weight gain. Here’s how to eat with your body clock:
◆ Have plenty of protein (eggs, yogurt or milk) at breakfast.
◆ Eat lunch around midday – don’t delay.
◆ Make the last meal of the day the lightest.
◆ Avoid eating late – leave at least two hours before bedtime.
◆ Try to get a good night’s sleep with regular sleep patterns.