Daily Eating Habits

Today’s blog is all about daily eating habits!

I ask that you pay attention to the times of the day that you eat. Most of us eat habitually at regular, clocked times: before work, during the lunch break and in the evening. We may take a couple of coffee or snack breaks during the day or make a late-night visit to the fridge. Few of us pause to check whether we are really hungry when we eat. We use food as entertainment and comfort whether we are socializing or alone, passing time or feeling bored.

Time of day determines how well our bodies assimilate food. Ayurvedic philosophy advocates for people to eat their biggest meal in the middle of the day, because it’s the best time for our bodies to take in and digest a large meal. If you look at many cultures in Europe, this practice is very common. People close shop, go home and eat a large meal with their families and friends. In our country it’s harder to find this time during the day, but you can find creative ways to have your largest meal at lunch hour. You may find that this works best for your body, or you might find you feel best when you have a lare meal at breakfast or at dinner instead. Some people eat a large breakfast and lunch and then have a small snack for dinner; others do best with five small meals throughout the day. Experiment with the sizes and timing of your meals; only you can determine what is best for your body. Each meal is an experiment. Take the time to listen to your body and notice what it needs.

Many health practitioners, dietitians and nutritionists emphasize that we should not eat after 7 or 8pm. I agree that it’s a good idea to avoid eating three hours before bed, because when we sleep, digestion slows and food tends to stay in our stomachs the whole night. Strange dreams and restless sleep can result from late-night eating and affect the next day’s energy. Some experts say we gain more weight from food we eat at night. I don’t know if this is scientifically true, but I do know that I don’t sleep well on a full stomach, a strong indication that it’s not working well for my system. But, again, it’s something for you to explore, using your own body as your laboratory.

Stay Nourished,

Coach Stephanie