Which is better for fat loss, three meals or six small meals throughout the day? There are pros and cons to both strategies, but with each plan, the real issue is keeping track of the total calories consumed in a day.

When we eat three large meals a day, it’s common to overeat because of our increased appetite. After about 3 hours without food, your body’s blood sugar begins to decline; after about four hours, your body has already digested your previous meal. Once you hit the five-hour mark, your blood sugar begins to bottom out, and it’s easy to eat whatever is in sight to refuel. This is why breakfast is so important – after seven to eight hours of sleep without food, you need energy first thing in the morning to get you moving.

If you normally eat three meals a day and gorge each time you sit down, it might be more beneficial to spread out your food consumption between five to six meals. Eating more frequent meals may help curb your appetite and stabilize your blood sugar, preventing dips that lead to hunger. However, if you eat more often, make sure to keep your calories in check. If you decide to eat mini meals, make sure to incorporate protein and fiber at each meal to help fill you up.

So what’s the bottom line when it comes to meal plans?? It is less about how often you eat and more about the total calories consumed. In order to lose fat, you must cut total calories, so log your food by keeping a food journal or through an app on your phone. This will keep you accountable to the food you are consuming and keep you on track for success!