In many households, hot food is served at least once a day. But why is this done? Is there a nutritional reason for this?
Because many people think that there should be a hot meal every day. But, in that case, is it better to serve it at midday or night? And is it a problem if there are days when only a cold dish is served?
Monika Bischoff, a nutritional advisor at the Barmherzige Brüder (Brothers of Mercy) Hospital in Munich, Germany, explains why the temperature of the dish is not important.
Does eating less or more than one hot meal a day have any impact on health?
In certain types of cooking, a lot of fat is needed to prepare a hot meal. This is reflected in the calories. That is why only one hot meal a day is recommended.
In addition, the body does not need to heat already hot food to process it. It can therefore be assumed that less energy is needed to digest food.
But whoever has the idea of drinking ice water to burn more calories: the energy expenditure is not so high as to be able to eat more because of it.
Of course, it is also possible to get a lot of energy from cold meals, for example by spreading butter generously on bread.
Therefore, the specialist points out, that it is not possible to specify in general what will be more or less healthy. It will always depend on the composition of the dishes, regardless of whether they are cold or hot.
What is a healthy meal?
To compose a healthy meal, one can be guided by the rule of the plate: half of it should be occupied by salad or vegetables.
One quarter should consist of a protein side dish, such as legumes or fish, and the other quarter a carbohydrate side dish, such as potatoes or wholemeal pasta. Foods rich in high-quality fats, meanwhile, should only be used in moderation.
The healthiest ways to prepare a dish, that uses little fat, are slow cooking and steaming, which also preserve nutrients and vitamins.
Meals must be varied and as colorful as possible, preferably regional and seasonal. And always taking into account your own needs. The basic rule is: that everything is in moderation and the right measure.
What time is it easier for the body to digest a hot meal?
Digestibility is different for each person. That is why there is no specific time for eating a hot meal.