MAINTAIN WEIGHT THE PAVLOVIAN WAY.

Your body waits for familiar signals to function on a day-to-day basis. Irregular eating patterns may contribute to weight gain and obesity. British scientists from the University of Nottingham found that eating at regular times was associated with lower food intake and increased thermogenesis (fat-burning). The body tries to maintain a constant weight called the weight set-point. Skipping meals or eating at irregular times triggers energy conservation mechanisms in the brain, which promotes weight gain. Eating at regular intervals promotes normal energy expenditure and reduces hunger. Try to eat 4-6 small meals a day at scheduled times. (Am J Clin Nut, 81: 16-24, 2005)