Eating at the correct time is essential for our health

Is eating in certain periods of time good for our health? Pietro Senette, nutritionist and researcher, answers.

«Following a regular meal time is to be considered a healthy approach based on scientific foundations. It is in fact advisable to have breakfast between 7.30 and 9.30 given the adequate metabolic activity of this period of time, guaranteeing rapid digestion of food, and lunch for a similar reason between 12.30 and 2.30pm, when the metabolism-stimulating hormones are in full swing. As for dinner, it should not last beyond 9pm to leave room for the "maintenance" activities of our body.

The human being has a real "internal clock" called circadian rhythm which, based on 24 hours, regulates the alternation of sleep and wakefulness and governs the metabolism. Any malfunctions of this "mechanism" can initially cause sleep disorders and, if perpetrated over time, even real diseases such as diabetes and arterial hypertension.

Eating on time is therefore a fundamental aspect of a healthy lifestyle and can contribute not only to controlling weight but also to promoting general well-being."