Skipping meals causes your blood sugar to plummet, in turn causing muscle breakdown and fat preservation, which ultimately will slow down your metabolism. Fasting for long periods of time also increases your appetite, resulting in cravings and over-consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods when you eat again. What time do you get up in the morning? Based on that time, calculate when you need to eat throughout the rest of the day, preferably every three to four hours. Mark the times in your journal, daybook or calendar, anywhere you're sure to see them and banish "I was too busy to eat" from your list of excuses. Store appropriate snacks in your bag, desk, cooler, or small refrigerator to eat at these regular intervals.