For quite some time, the number “three” has been traditionally associated with how many meals we should eat per day. Unfortunately, this figure is far from optimal. Perhaps you’ve heard someone say that eating several small meals throughout the day is best. Often, the reasoning for eating several meals is to speed up your metabolism. This is correct, but, only a small piece of the puzzle. The timing and constituents of the meals also impacts the rate that your goals will be accomplished.
How does food raise your metabolic rate? Each time you eat, your body has to utilize a certain amount of calories just for digestion. Yes, digestion is also a process that burns calories. Certain foods raise your body temperature higher than others. This “thermal” response to food is a theory, and, is appropriately referred to as The Specific Dynamic Action of Food. Protein has the greatest thermal (heat generating capabilities). Protein can raise your body temperature approximately 15%, carbohydrates approximately 10%, and fats between 3-5% (depending on the source). The constant elevation of the body temperature can alone radically change the body composition.
For many, eating 5-6 small meals is very difficult. With the simple addition of a shake during the day, attaining your goals can be much easier. Whey protein is not just a food supplement used by athletes. It can be used by anyone that wants to make attaining their goals much easier. The implications of not eating regular meals throughout the day reaches far deeper than just weight loss. If you skip meals, your body will breakdown your muscle tissue, convert it to glucose (with the aid of key enzymes & hormones) and lower your metabolic rate. Individuals that do not consume frequent meals spaced though out the day will also encounter disturbances in their blood glucose levels. Irritability, nervousness, ansciousness and loss of concentration are also possible. Contact a nutritionist to help guide you towards your particular goals.
George Tardik is a Nutritionist specializing in weight loss. George has worked with professional athletes from the NHL, NFL & CFL. He has appeared on CBC’s Newsworld, Marketplace & Sports Journal. For appointment bookings, call: Nature’s Source at 905.502.6789.
