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Fewer meals a day can prevent diabetes: A new study on meals and health
24.09.2023 17:20
Updated: 13.05.2024 21:23
While some nutritionists offer eating smaller portions frequently, scientists claim that it might be better to eat bigger portions less often.
It's all about insulin and type 2 diabetes, and how frequent meals can affect it.
Let's find out why.
A new study
Recent tests propose that a particular eating pattern known as time-restricted eating could benefit health and lower the chances of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Time-restricted eating involves regular meals but reducing their frequency and abstaining from late-night snacks.
It also involves fasting for 12 to 14 hours, often overnight.
How it was conducted
After examining numerous studies, the specialists discovered a connection between the number of meals and the risk of obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
The commonly suggested approach of having three meals a day along with snacks might actually play a role in promoting obesity.
This eating pattern keeps insulin levels high throughout the day, which can contribute to insulin resistance and the development of Type 2 diabetes.
Meanwhile, time-restricted eating permits the body to decrease insulin and glucose levels, potentially enhancing insulin sensitivity, supporting brain health, and better regulating blood sugar levels.
Furthermore, this eating style may assist in reducing daily calorie intake without the need for meticulous calorie counting.
What to do
The specialists recommend a strategy of consuming regular meals, with a particular emphasis on starting the day with a nutritious breakfast that includes protein and healthy fats such as eggs.
Reducing between-meal snacks can also contribute to the prevention of obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
However, they note that eating habits vary among individuals, and smaller, less active people may need fewer calories.
In conclusion, fewer meals with high-quality food and avoiding late-night eating can be a good guideline for those at risk of Type 2 diabetes and obesity, but it's important to find what works best for your body.
