Why Do We Have 3 Meals A Day?

Historians trace the custom of eating three meals a day back to the upper classes of ancient societies and the ever-evolving dining customs of British society. The American three-meals-a-day custom evolved with a few changes, such as dinner being the heaviest meal of the day. While the custom may have started because of the changing needs of families throughout history, the continuation of the custom is often a matter of habit. However, eating three meals a day works for most people and has the support of many health and nutrition professionals.

Custom

Eating three meals a day is the custom in the United States although many people are breaking with tradition and trying different eating patterns that require more or fewer meals a day. Health professionals often recommend different eating patterns for people with medical conditions. For instance, people with digestive problems might benefit from four or five smaller meals instead of the customary three larger meals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends paying more attention to what you eat and to controlling caloric intake over time.

24-hour Nutrition

Humans may need to space nutrition throughout the day to provide continuous energy and a constant supply of the nutrients the body needs to function properly, according to HighlightsKids.com's senior science editor Jack Myers. Three meals a day spaced at the beginning, middle and end of the day supplies the nutrients needed during the day and during sleep. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends three meals and several snacks a day for children, who have higher energy needs than adults.

Digestion

The digestion of food occurs over days through a complex system of organs, nerves, muscles and biological substances, such as enzymes and hormones. The movement of food from your stomach to the small intestine, which is just one part of the digestive process, can take up to eight hours, according to Michael Picco, M.D., at MayoClinic.com. Spacing meals throughout the day gives your body time to move food and nutrients through your body and eliminate waste without overworking your digestive system.

Weight Management

Limiting the number of daily meals to three can encourage self-control and discourage overeating. Three meals a day lessens the need to eat large meals and allows you to spread your caloric intake throughout the day. The body becomes accustomed to three meals a day over time, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Skipping meals can increase hunger and cause overeating.