We were all brought up with the idea that we absolutely had to obey the rule of three meals a day. Having breakfast in the morning, then lunch and dinner would be the norm. However, for several years now, the works and information on the young (classic or intermittent) are multiplying. Just like some type 5/2 diets. In other words, a diet one that consists of eating in very limited quantities for 2 days, then normally the rest of the week. Faced with this information that is coming from all sides, how do you find your way around?
Loss of control over food needs
“People are totally lost and more and more. The rule of three meals a day has several advantages. We will have a much better chance of covering all of our nutritional needs, therefore reducing the risk of deficiencies. And above all we satisfy the hunger that manifests itself every 3 or 4 hours”, recalls Florence Foucaut, dietitian nutritionist. Several scientific studies and experiments have shown that people who do not follow this rhythm tend to snack. But above all to compensate for the following meals if they have not eaten anything at the previous ones. In addition, they will be attracted to fatty and sugary foods. “If the 3 meal rule is not followed, you can end up eating anything at any time, and lose control of the food, which can lead to weight gain or problems with long-term health, says the expert.
Divergent studies
If this theory has been called into question, it is following the publication of certain scientific studies. They claim that fasting for 16 hours helps to limit overweight or diabetes. We wouldn’t need to sit down to dinner three times a day. “These disagreements and these new studies, even if they are well argued, create a cacophony in the nutritional messages, which is harmful because we no longer know what to think”, laments the dietitian. The only certainty that we have to date is that on the subject, opinions diverge completely from one specialist to another.
So what is the solution ? “There is no “standard” advice that suits everyone. Each eater is different in age, physical condition, lifestyle. So we must take this into account and above all listen to his food sensations !”, adds Florence Foucaut. In practice, it is therefore essential to indulge in self-reflection. Is the principle of three meals suitable for me or not? Or are there times when I sit down to eat because it’s time when I’m not hungry? Can I do without breakfast or not?
If the idea of intermittent or sequential fasting appeals to you, why not. But if the idea of skipping a meal revolts you, no question of giving in to this wave. The rule of three meals a day can therefore be questioned. Or not !
