Our bodies possess a natural clock called the circadian rhythm that governs one’s sleep and wake schedule. This innate clock does not orchestrate how the various organs work in concert to perform their various vital functions. Food serves as a catalyst for our digestive system regardless of the time we eat. Hence, as long as we stay awake, we will search for food. Oftentimes, individuals tend to graze on food during their waking state making it difficult for the body to burn the fuel it has consumed. If humans munch throughout the day, we neglect to give the body the time and space it needs to burn consumed calories.
Scientists argue that to adequately digest the food we have consumed, we must have fasting periods. During such fasting periods our bodies break down fat and cholesterol. If individuals continuously eat, this important mechanism does not occur. To activate the metabolic furnace, we must fast for five to six hours. In addition, we must continue to fast for another five to six hours to burn the calories acquired while we were awake. Serious and huge fat burning happens during the sleeping state. During the evening fast, the liver changes from burning carbohydrates to burning fats. The liver breaks lipids into glycerol and fatty acids. This incredible process leads to leaner and healthier bodies. Individuals that sleep more tend to weigh less.
In addition to fasting, providing our digestive system with the proper food at the appropriate time is as vital. Metabolic hormones that include adrenaline and cortisone peak in the morning. Consequently, anything consumed between dawn and noon is promptly converted into vigor and strength. It is critical that individuals eat in the morning for this very reason. The studies suggest that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating breakfast creates and maintains metabolic harmony for the day to enhance our functioning. Experts recommend protein and carbohydrates for breakfast. If individuals do not consume protein in the morning, the body will rob it from our muscles. Moreover, protein is integral in improving focus and carbohydrates decrease hunger.
Researchers assert that during breakfast, individuals can safely indulge in pastries and sweets as they will be actively metabolized in a high calorie burning phase. Early carbs also curb afternoon sugar cravings according to new research. As long as lunch is consumed by noon, there is free reign with lunch as well; including fats, proteins and carbs. Metabolic hormones are dominating by noon. In the afternoon and at night, metabolism slows and carbohydrates stick. As a result, it is recommended that dinner be light and early from 5 – 7 p.m. Given that protein stimulates concentration and may interfere with sleep, it is helpful to limit protein consumption during dinner. During dinner it is also beneficial to skip fats and maintain the carbs. Carbs signal satiety to the brain and keep hunger at bay to allow the fasting period to occur.
Eating a small midnight snack can wreak havoc on the body due to the concentrated effort all the organs must engage in to burn the calories consumed. In addition, the stomach does not absorb nutrients efficiently while we sleep. The goal is to give our bodies the right food at the right time to eliminate cravings, enjoy desserts and feel satiable while staying healthy and lean. Source: Psychology Today.
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