Watching the Clock for Weight Loss

By now, everyone has heard that a good diet is a big key to weight loss. But, along with what you eat, did you know that when you eat makes a big difference in cutting pounds quickly and efficiently? Taking the time to learn when to eat (and when not to eat) can increase your overall level of energy as well as reduce hunger pangs.

What is the best thing about all of this? The rules aren’t too hard to follow, which is suitable for those of us with busy or hectic schedules!

Timing your Weight Loss Tips

Eat Every 3 to 4 Hours – The small but frequent meals are an absolute key for a proper diet. First of all, if you are regularly eating, then you will regulate your body in regards to energy and glucose levels. Also, the regular intake reduces (or even eliminates) appetite control issues. The constant digestion helps to regulate and increase your metabolism, which helps in natural fat burning. If you sleep 8 hours per day, then you are awake for 16 hours. If you eat within the 1st hour of the day, then you should eat about four small meals and one snack (or three meals and two snacks).

Read: Best Fitness Tips For Overweight Teenagers

Eat Breakfast Early – You shouldn’t wait more than an hour to eat the most important meal of the day. Your body needs the proper fuel to get started, and breakfast provides a natural kick-start to your system. Missing breakfast increases stress, slows the metabolic rate, and causes food cravings. Aim for a healthy breakfast packed with substantial nutrients and skip the junk like donuts and sugary cereal.

Eat Protein First – A lot of people have a hard time with this, but it pays big to eat protein with breakfast. Not only does it help keep you full for appetite control, but it also adds those valuable building blocks for muscle. Lean muscle burns more calories than fat! Hard-boiled eggs are an excellent option for people on a tight morning schedule.

No Late Meals – There are different rules of thumb like no snacks after 8 pm or no carbohydrates after 7 pm. But the real benchmark is your bedtime. Do not eat 3 hours before bed. If you have cravings, then drink a big glass of water and chew gum. A late meal messes with your blood sugar as well as the quality of sleep. This can include unbalancing the natural release of melatonin and hormones for a restful, recuperating sleep. When you sleep poorly, it is natural to compensate with coffee, caffeine, and sugar.

Last Meal – The last meal of the day should be high in protein and low in fats and carbohydrates. That will give you something to make you feel full and keep your stomach occupied while causing minimal blood sugar fluctuation.

Never Workout Hungry – Your body needs proper fuel for a good workout. Make sure you have eaten about 2-3 hours before you hit the gym with a meal that includes plenty of energy foods.

Just Eat – Often, many of us multi-task while eating instead of just focusing on eating. Turn off the TV, sit down, and enjoy your food. Take your time and relax. This will help reduce hunger pangs, ease tension, and assist the digestive process.