Everyone knows that eating the right foods is crucial when you’re trying to lead a healthier lifestyle or shed some pounds.
Filling up on nutrient-rich foods at meal times can help curb excessive snacking throughout the day, which is often a major obstacle in achieving your health goals.
However, experts argue that not only what you eat but also when you eat is equally important. Timing your breakfast just right could be the weight-loss trick you’ve been searching for.
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Recent studies suggest that the time you have your first meal of the day can impact everything from your metabolism to your hunger levels for the rest of the day. This simple tweak might help you drop a dress size in just a few weeks, reports the Express.
Nutritionists from Creo Clinic have explored why this breakfast timing trend is gaining popularity and how it can help you slim down without drastically changing your diet.
Eating in the morning is interpreted by your body as a signal to kickstart your metabolism.
“Your metabolic rate is naturally higher earlier in the day,” a nutritionist at Creo Clinic explained. “By eating breakfast earlier, you’re helping your body burn calories more efficiently for the rest of the day.”
As well as this, late breakfasts or skipping the meal altogether often result in uncontrolled hunger by the afternoon, making you more likely to overeat at lunch or dinner and reach for sugary snacks for a quick energy boost.
Research indicates that early birds who eat their morning meal tend to ingest fewer calories during the day.
An earlier breakfast can also promote better blood sugar control, a crucial factor for those aiming to shed pounds; poor insulin response can result in fat gatherning, particularly around your waistline.
How to give your weight loss journey a boost with breakfast
The experts have provided general pointers for a successful breakfast routine, pinpointing what and when to eat.
They said: “Small, consistent changes like adjusting your breakfast timing are often more sustainable and effective in the long term.”
This strategy is not just about watching the scales tip in your favour – expect more energy, fewer food cravings, and sharper mental focus all day long.
The advice is to wake up between 6am to 7am, and begin by hydrating with a glass of water.
Follow this by having a substantial breakfast between 7am and 8am, making sure it has the right balance to keep you satiated well into the day. For instance:
- Protein: Scrambled eggs or a protein shake
- Carbs: Whole-grain toast or a small bowl of oatmeal
- Healthy fats: A handful of nuts or sliced avocado
- Fiber: A side of fresh fruit like berries or a banana