The old adage “eat breakfast like a King, lunch Like a Prince, and dinner like a pauper” has been tested, with new study comparing high energy intakes at lunch in comparison to dinner, in relation to weight loss in overweight and obese participants.

With a lot people on-the-run during the day and having quick lunch breaks at work, there is a trend to eat a smaller lunch and a bigger dinner – plus dessert!

However, research over a 12 week period by the University of Nottingham in the UK found that those participants who ate most of their kilojoules during the day, ended up losing more weight than those who consumed most of the kilojoules in the evening.

The researchers also found that those who consumed most of their kilojoules during the day, also showed benefits to improve insulin resistance – offering a helpful insight for those who are either pre or type 2 diabetic.

The hormone insulin is made by the pancreas and is vital in the metabolism of sugar (glucose) from carbohydrates and when released it also ensures our blood sugar levels are balanced – preventing it from getting too low (hypoglycemia) or high (hyperglycemia).

Whilst there is no one-size-fits-all framework for health and weight-loss, the old saying may be wise after all.

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