The goal of adopting a balanced diet never leaves us. After having taken great care to introduce enough protein into our meals, we now wonder about the time at which we should really eat.
To feel good physically and mentally, the time of day when you eat your plate, like what you put in it, is important. This has a direct impact on our health in general, our mood, but also our concentration. So, what time should you eat your meals?
What time should we drink our coffee?
Why are meal times important?
Eating at regular times helps maintain good energy levels throughout the day, while stabilizing blood sugar levels. For example, breakfast is crucial to prevent the body from running “on empty”. A balanced morning meal helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is essential for maintaining good energy levels, as well as better concentration and a stable mood.
By eating at the right times, you can optimize your digestion, promote better sleep, and even improve your mental health. According to a study published in September 2022 in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Scienceseating too late in the evening can have consequences on your mood. Researchers observed an increase in depressive symptoms of 26.2% and an increase in anxiety of 16.1% among participants who ate meals late. In contrast, those who ate only during the day showed no significant change in mood.
Should we let our leftovers cool before storing them in the fridge?
What time should you eat your meals?
If you have a classic pace of life, with work days that start around 9 a.m. and end in the late afternoon, here is an example of a schedule to follow:
- Lunch: Around 8 a.m., about an hour after waking up. This meal is crucial for resetting your energy after a night of fasting.
- Dinner: Between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. This period is ideal for maintaining a good energy balance throughout the afternoon.
- Snack (optional): Around 3 or 4 p.m. to avoid feeling sluggish in the middle of the day and avoid overeating in the evening.
- Dinner: Ideally between 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., at the latest before 8 p.m. It is recommended to eat dinner at least three hours before going to bed so as not to disrupt digestion during the night.
