Early eaters might get health boost

Early eaters might get health boost


Many Americans tend to eat most of their calories later in the day. Perhaps they’re not morning people. Or they don’t have time for breastfast. Maybe lunch becomes a casualty of a busy job.

Unfortunately for America’s general health, we’re too often stalking the cubbard late into day and night for snacks or an unhealthy, quick meal.

A study presented at the Endocrine Society’s 2023 annual meeting suggests restricting calories during the first eight hours of the day benefits metalbolic health.

Scientists looked at a diet regimen called time-restricted feeding. This involves eating most calories by early afternoon.

The study analyzed data from individuals asked to follow two diets. Volunteers followed the time-restricted regimen, eating 80% of their calories before 1 p.m. After seven days, they switched to a more typical eating pattern in which they consumed half their calories after 4 p.m.

Researchers report that after only one week, early eating reduced the time spent with high blood sugar levels. Results show the improvement in metabolic health might keep dieters from gaining weight while improving the way cells store glucose.

Endocrinologists say diabetes is epidemic in the United States, pushed along by obesity and Americans’ unhealthy eating practices. Study authors say a time-restricted diet might help prevent someone who has obesity from progressing to either prediabetes or diabetes.

It’s important to consult a physician before embarking on a signicant dietary change.

But some scientists believe it’s a good idea to put your food cravings to bed hours before your head hits the pillow.

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