Anyone who has been involved with losing fat and dropping pounds has heard the theory that eating every three hours is necessary to get maximum results. The theory is that the metabolism is stoked by eating so often. However, is it really necessary to eat every 3 hours?
Personal Results
I will tell you that I have tried the 3 meals a day approach and the every 3 hours approach and I have gotten amazing results with the every 3 hours approach. I eat less calories at each meal, but I eat more often. I never feel hungry and that means I don't crave junk. As soon as I switch to the 3 meals a day approach I start craving things I should not be eating. Eventually it is hard to not give in to those cravings. Thus, for me, eating every 3 hours is important.
Scientific Evidence
There is no scientific proof that you must eat every 3 hours. All evidence is anecdotal. However, it appears that our bodies were designed to graze. By eating every 3 hours we accomplish that grazing habit. We take in smaller portions but more of them. I have to believe that this boosts the metabolism based upon common sense and my own experience.
Common Sense
It takes a boost in your metabolism to digest food. Eating every 3 hours has your body constantly digesting food. This has got to increase your metabolic rate. My own experience shows that I get better results when i stick to an every 3 hours eating plan.
Is it Truly Necessary?
The question was “is it truly necessary” and I think the answer is “no” because you will get decent results if you eat clean and only 3 meals in a day. I do think you will get better results if you stick to a meal plan of food every 3 hours. I have seen it in action on my own body and it just works better.
