Grazing vs Three Meals a Day for Eating Habits
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how different eating patterns—either three meals a day or grazing every two to three hours—affect daily food intake. Researchers believe that more frequent eating, such as grazing, might reduce consumption at dinner and throughout the day. The goal is to determine which eating style better manages energy intake. This trial may suit adults who have never been overweight, are active, and have not experienced recent eating restrictions or significant weight changes. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding eating patterns and their impact on energy management.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are currently taking medication that affects appetite or food intake, you cannot participate in this trial.
What prior data suggests that these eating frequency prescriptions are safe?
Research shows that meal frequency can impact weight and health. Some studies suggest that eating fewer meals each day might aid in weight control. For instance, eating just one meal a day has proven effective for weight loss. However, eating more frequently might not always be beneficial.
In terms of safety, changing meal frequency is generally well-tolerated. No major reports of harmful side effects have emerged from altering meal frequency. Therefore, participating in this kind of study is unlikely to pose serious health risks.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Grazing vs Three Meals a Day approach to eating habits because it challenges traditional meal timing by focusing on a more flexible eating pattern. Unlike the standard three meals a day, this method allows individuals to eat smaller amounts more frequently, which could lead to better energy levels and metabolism. This approach may improve satiety and reduce overall calorie intake without the restrictions typically associated with dieting. If successful, it could offer a new way to manage weight and improve overall health without the need for strict meal schedules or complex dietary guidelines.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for eating habits?
This trial will compare the effects of grazing (eating more frequently) with having three meals a day. Research has shown that eating more often doesn't necessarily lead to eating less or feeling less hungry. Some studies have found no significant difference in food intake whether people have three meals a day or snack throughout the day. For example, one study showed that eating more frequently didn't reduce hunger. Another review found that the number of meals didn't affect food intake or weight. Overall, evidence suggests that simply eating more often might not help reduce food intake or manage weight.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals aged 18-35 with a healthy body weight (BMI of 18.5-24.9), who have not been overweight, eat without restrictions according to the TFEQ, and exercise moderately for at least 150 minutes weekly.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants follow either a meal or grazing eating frequency condition to assess energy intake and expenditure
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- EF condition
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Lead Sponsor