A pattern of late meals can often lead to weight gain and and it has been known to upset the regular body metabolism to a great extent. A report of the findings was presented by the University of Pennsylvania's faculty, confirming the same. The study showed that compared to eating early in the day, late meals can have a negative impact as far as weight gain is concerned.

It was found that eating late meals lead to an increase in the level of glucose and insulin (which leads to diabetes) and also an increase in cholesterol and triglycerides (which can cause cardiovascular diseases). An earlier study had already shown that loss of sleep can affect weight loss. The new findings suggest that timing of the meals, regardless of the sleeping habits, have the ability to effect weight gain.

During the trial, a team of nine members (five men and four women) were asked to follow a different meal pattern for 8 weeks. One pattern followed early meals and the other followed a late night routine. The 8 week pattern were separated by a 2 week “washout” period to make sure that the first pattern did not carry over to the second.

The early pattern consisted of three meals and two snacks consumed between 8 a.m and 7 p.m. while the late night pattern consisted of three meals and two snacks consumed between 12 p.m and 11 p.m. The sleep period was the same for both the patterns that is between 12 a.m. and 7 a.m. The researchers then measured the weights of the participants at various points during the study such as before the first week in the 8 week pattern, after the first 8-week pattern, after the 2-week washout period and at the end of the second 8 week pattern.

Early examination of the results show that there is a considerable amount of weight gain in the participants with the later meal patterns. The results also displayed evidence of a less healthy metabolic profile when a delayed meal pattern was followed. There was a spike in the body's glucose, insulin, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

There were some hormonal differences noticed among the participants as well. For instance, the level of ghrelin (a hormone that increases appetite) was found to peak earlier in the day for the participants who followed the early pattern. Such a pattern would mean that early eaters would feel hungry earlier and also feel satiated for longer.

This pattern in eating, which leads to weight gain has been noted by many weight loss clinics across Washington and other states. While the early meal pattern is being implemented in the dieting itineraries, it is advised to have daily meals earlier than later to avoid weight gain issues. For patients who are seeking medical weight loss services, Healthy Habits has the perfect program based on the patient's need.

Healthy Habits Medical Business Consultants are a medical weight loss and age management clinic with over 30 years of experience in the industry. The mission of the organization is to ensure exceptional customer service and satisfaction.