Health
Calorie counting, diet plans, or strict food restrictions are the default advice given to those seeking weight loss.
Health
But for people balancing work, studies and household responsibilities, keeping consistent meal timings is difficult.
Health
Dr Vandhana Gowthaman, Clinical Dietitian at SRM Prime Hospital, Chennai, told South First that weight management depends not only on what people eat but also on when they eat.
Health
“Irregular meal timing can slow metabolism, which reduces calorie burning and may increase fat storage,” she said.
Health
Irregular meals may reduce leptin levels, which regulate satiety and energy balance, while increasing hunger hormones that drive appetite and worsen glucose control.
Health
Dr Gowthaman added that skipping meals or eating at unpredictable times can disrupt digestion and insulin response. Over time, this can increase the risk of insulin resistance and unhealthy fat accumulation.