Smaller Meals and Weight Loss - Diet Tip #4
Did you know that if we eat more often, it actually helps us to lose weight? This doesn't mean we can eat larger quantities when we eat more often! But it helps kick our metabolism into gear when we eat more times per day. It's healthier to eat five or six smaller meals per day than the usual three large meals. We'll not only feel better, but can actually lose weight.
Eating smaller meals results in weight loss.
When we eat more often, it helps our body maintain a more stable insulin level. The sugars and carbohydrates that cause insulin to be released into the bloodstream will be more steady if we eat more often but in smaller quantities. Having consistent blood sugar levels, instead of three large spikes can start changes in the body to help us lose weight and have more energy.
When we do eat a large meal, our body releases a large amount of insulin. Our body then proceeds to store the extra calories we don't need in the form of fat. If we eat a smaller meal, then we use our food as energy instead of storing what we don't need. This is when we can start to lose weight.
This doesn't mean we can fill up on junk food or snacks when we begin to eat more often. We should eat a balanced diet in small portions to lose weight. It will just be spread out into five or six miniature meals instead of three larger meals.
Energy is also one of the key benefits when we eat more often. If the food we're consuming is healthy, then our bodies will have a steady stream of nutrition to keep us energized. It's easy to feel sluggish after eating a huge meal. Eating smaller meals more often will eliminate that. The right food is important to help us lose weight and keep our energy level high.
Protein is an important way to get that needed energy as we strive to eat more often. It doesn't have to be from meat. Including protein in each small meal is actually good for us mentally. Important amino acids in protein help keep us mentally alert and give us energy by elevating the brain chemicals called dopamine and nor-epinephrine. These chemicals give us energy and we can't get them unless protein is included in our meals.
Instead of just having a healthy snack of fruit, try combining it with yogurt for protein. Low fat versions of yogurt and cheese, eggs, tofu, and beans are some of the excellent ways to include protein without adding more meat.
Lean meats are a good source of protein. Fish is also a great way to add protein to our diets as well. Fish such as salmon is not only a good protein source, but the fat that it does include is the healthy type of Omega 3 fatty acid.
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