Eating small meals every three hours can help you increase your metabolism, energy and nutrient absorption. The three-hour diet and the six-meals-per-day diet are similar diets based on stabilizing blood sugar, which helps control your appetite. You can use this diet method to help you get rid of excess fat.
Calorie Control
How much weight you gain or lose depends on what you eat and how many calories you consume. When you eat six smaller meals per day instead of two or three big meals, you eat fewer calories per meal, but you are constantly supplying your body with energy. Your body only needs a certain amount of calories at a time. Most people often eat more than they need at one time, which can result in the body storing excess calories as fat. In addition, when you are constantly eating, your metabolism is always working, making you burn more calories.
Nutrient Absorption
Your body can only absorb a certain amount of calories at a time. If you eat only two or three large meals a day, you probably won't be able to absorb all of the nutrients you consume. By eating smaller meals, your body has a better chance to absorb these nutrients.
Stay Energized
Due to the hard work necessary for your body to digest the meal, you might have energy deficits after eating a big meal. Eating smaller, more-frequent meals can help you regulate your energy so you don't go through as many peaks and valleys. Eating frequently also might help reduce your cravings for snacks.
Plan Ahead
Your schedule might make it hard to eat every three hours. Planning an eating schedule and getting on a routine can help. If you don't have time to sit down and eat or a cook a full meal, meal replacements like protein bars or shakes are an option.
Other Issues
Eating small meals in restaurants can be difficult, but you either can eat a smaller portion and take home the leftovers or indulge every once in a while. This approach also can be difficult to maintain if you regularly eat with family members who follow a traditional diet. Again, you simply can eat the same meal as your family, but a smaller portion.
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