Since eight years we, my wife and I, stopped having lunch. In the beginning we did this with the intention of losing weight, but over time we liked it and got used to it. We eat wholesome in the morning and also in the evening. It does not make a difference in weight loss, but we find that in our western world we usually eat too much anyway and if we omit a meal, we do not gain weight. We are 76 and 72 years old respectively, and eat quite healthy, with no extras in the evening or in between, except fruit.
People we talk to about our eating behavior advise us not to skip lunch, because they believe that a person should eat three times a day. What do you think about this?
Jan and Thea
Suzan Tuinier, nutritionist
Thank you for your message. In my opinion, it is mainly about the total amount of energy you ingest in a day and the amount of effort that is required. In other words, you need to get enough energy for your daily activities.
Most people don’t feel comfortable on an empty stomach, which is why we usually eat three times a day.
Important Nutrients
I find it difficult to say whether skipping lunch is a good idea. By cutting out a meal, you miss out on important nutrients. However, if you get those nutrients during the other meal, the problem is less serious.
I advise you to make sure you get the recommended amounts (250 grams of vegetables, 2 pieces of fruit, etc.) and that you do not take many snacks instead of lunch.
Most importantly, do what feels right and maintain a healthy weight!
Do you also have a question? Then ask one of our experts. Always go to your doctor with urgent questions, the experts are not the right person for that. They also do not diagnose. You can find the other conditions here.
Suzan Tuinier is a nutritionist with years of experience in nutrition education. She knows a lot about vitamins and minerals, because she is coordinator of the Vitamin Information Bureau. In addition, her mother’s heart beats faster when it comes to infant nutrition.
