A few months ago, I wrote a post detailing why the oft-repeated suggestion of 6-8 small meals a day is disastrous. In short, the pancreas is designed to release insulin 2-3 times a day. Anytime food enters the system, the pancreas releases insulin. As such, the 6-8 meals per day overworks the pancreas. In fact, some researchers (such as Dr. Brian Peskin) suggest that this way of eating actually is one of the causes of diabetes. In my experiences with patients over the years, I would agree with this theory.
Those who support this erroneous way of eating state that 6-8 smaller meals per day is designed to rev up metabolism, normalize blood sugar and help a person lose weight. In a review published by the Journal of Nutrition, scientists from the University of Missouri analyzed supposed benefits of multiple meals over the course of the day, there was NO difference between eating 3 times a day and eating more frequently; that is, there was no improvement in increased metabolism, stabilization of blood sugar or weight loss.
The scientists concluded that eating more than 3 meals per day had very little if any affect on appetite control either.
Interested in increasing metabolism? Exercise more frequently at more intense rates.
Interested in stabilizing blood sugar? Cut out sugars, simple carbs and junk food in general and add cinnamon to your diet.
Weight loss? If you follow the first two suggestions, weight loss will be the end result. . . along with many more health benefits.
And yes, stick to 3 meals a day.