What you eat is incredibly important if you are embarking on a weight loss journey, but when you eat - and when you stop eating - could also determine your success.
Personal trainer Omar Ellaboudy spoke exclusively to GB News about the best times to eat for effective weight loss. He also recommended slimmers stop eating completely for the day at least two or three hours before bedtime.
When it comes to breakfast, the expert advised "eating within an hour of waking". He explained: "Consuming a nutritious breakfast soon after waking up can kickstart your metabolism for the day."
As for what slimmers should include in their morning meal, the fitness guru recommended stocking up on sources of protein and fibre.
'Consuming a nutritious breakfast soon after waking up can kickstart your metabolism for the day'
Instagram / Omar Ellaboudy PT
He said: "Foods high in protein and fibre can help keep you full longer, reducing the likelihood of snacking later."
As for your midday meal, Omar advised: "Eating lunch between 12pm and 2pm can help maintain energy levels and prevent overeating in the evening.
"Ensure your lunch is balanced with a mix of lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates."
The expert then recommended enjoying an "early dinner", explaining that "eating earlier in the evening allows your body more time to digest before sleep, which can be beneficial for weight loss".
According to the personal trainer, slimmers should aim to have dinner by 7pm.
The expert discouraged eating a big meal late in the day, instead recommending something "light and nutritious".
He explained: "Dinner should be lighter compared to breakfast and lunch, focusing on vegetables, lean proteins, and minimal carbohydrates."
Many of us like to graze throughout the day, however, processed snacks that are high in saturated fat, salt and sugar can derail our weight loss goals.
Healthy snacking is therefore imperative. The expert said: "If you need snacks, opt for healthy options like fruits, nuts, or yoghurt.
"The timing of snacks can be important too: mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks can help keep hunger at bay."
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Nuts make for a healthy mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack
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Snacks should not be eaten too late at night, according to the personal trainer. Omar encouraged imposing a "cut-off time" for eating.
He said: "Try to avoid eating anything at least two to three hours before bedtime. Late night eating can interfere with your body’s ability to burn fat and regulate blood sugar levels.
"To get the most out of the above couple it up with a well-structured workout routine."
