Finally, there is an increase in metabolic rate associated with the digestion of food and the absorption and metabolism of nutrients. Called the “thermic effect of food,” the peak in metabolic rate from this thermic effect usually occurs about 1–3 hours after eating. Here again, you can use this fact to your advantage. For example, the same number of calories consumed from five or six smaller meals and snacks spread throughout the day will produce a higher metabolic rate and burn more calories, than if you consume the same amount of food in two or three larger meals. Just make sure they are the right foods, not twinkies!
The Power of the 1-2 PUNCH
Your best strategy for boosting your metabolic rate and keeping it consistently higher is to be active more often, engage in both aerobic activities and resistance exercise, and consume your calories from smaller meals eaten more frequently.
