Source: foodandnutrition.org
What Science Says About Snacking
Snacking is considered a healthful way of life. Health organizations in the United States recommend frequent feedings to control appetite and energy levels. For people keeping up with nutrition news in bodybuilding and fitness, most people are probably aware that eating frequently to amplify metabolism has been questioned recently. In summary, the thermic effect of food does not depend on meal frequency; it depends on total food consumed. Jill Weisenberger is a nutrition communications consultant, private practice dietitian and author. I think many people would enjoy reading her article in which she offers insight on the topic. She breaks down and questions some of the evidence nutritionists have used in support of snacking. There is so much potential in understanding how meal frequency impacts gene regulation and hormones. She concludes:
“While there is considerable interest in eating frequency, there is no consensus regarding an ideal pattern. It may be that meal and snack quality is more important than frequency of eating and that consumers can benefit from any number of meal patterns. As research into these factors continues, the best pattern may be the one most suitable to a person's individual lifestyle.”