The term is "grazing" and it's important in the fat loss process. The best analogy I have found is to compare your body's metabolism to a fire. If you start a fire and want to keep it roaring, you will do well to continuously add kindling to the flames. On the other hand, if you start a fire and dump a huge log in and leave it for hours on end, your fire will consist of a smoldering piece of wood when you return.
Think of your metabolism as a fire- you must stoke that fire frequently to keep it ablaze!
Think of your daily meals in this way to keep your metabolism blazing and your body fat melting. Digestion is actually a mini-workout in itself, so when coupled with a regular exercise program, your progress will come quick.

For maximum fat loss and muscle retention:
- Eat 4-6 small meals throughout the day.
- Eat those small meals every 2-3 hours.
- Stay hydrated and match your water intake to your expenditure. Take into account how much you sweat and how physical your are during your day. We lose water through exercise, digestion, through our breath as well as excretion.
- Lift weights! The more muscle you own, the faster your metabolism while you are at rest.
- Perform cardiovascular exercise and make sure it suits your goals.