Many of us are aware of the dangers of eating late at night. It prevents you from burning the calories you ingested, making it detrimental to weight loss. It may also give you nightmares.
But now there’s another reason to avoid eating late at night. Recent research says it can make you hungrier. Find out what the new news is all about.
Why Eating Late at Night Makes You Hungrier
Research reveals that eating late at night dysregulates hunger hormones, so you feel hungrier during the day. Nutritional psychiatrist Uma Naidoo sheds some light on the topic.
“A recent randomized, controlled, crossover trial found that individuals whose largest meals are consumed later in the day have lower serum leptin levels (the hormone that tells us we’re full) and higher ghrelin levels (the hormones that make us feel hungry). This means people may feel hungrier and be less inclined to stop eating when full,” she said.
Dr. Aditya S. Chowti, Senior Consultant- Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru explains that eating food close to bedtime, “disrupts the natural circadian rhythm of our body, which regulates various physiological processes, including appetite and metabolism. This disruption can lead to dysregulation of hunger hormones.”
He went on to say that eating high-sugar and high-fat foods late at night is especially harmful to hormone regulation.
Other Reasons to Avoid Eating Near Bedtime
Here are other reasons to avoid eating late at night:
- It Interferes with Digestion: Your metabolism slows down late at night, so you don’t digest foods properly. Eating near bedtime can cause indigestion and acid reflux that interferes with a good night’s sleep.
- Reduces Sleep Quality: Stomach pain can keep you awake at night. The food ingredients can also stimulate you making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases: Weight gain and dysregulation in the system can contribute to the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome.
Benefits of Sticking to a Regular Meal Schedule
It’s advisable to work out a regular meal routine and stick to it. Doing so will:
- Improve Digestion: A regular meal routine reduces digestive issues while optimizing nutrient absorption and enzyme secretion.
- Stabilize Energy Levels: Eating meals at regular intervals will provide a steady stream of energy throughout the day preventing crashes and fatigue.
- Benefits of Weight Management: Sticking to a schedule reduces the risk of unhealthy snacking and overeating. It promotes portion control and healthy meal planning.
- Enhance Metabolism: Your metabolism will adjust to your meal schedule leading to improved nutrient processing and calorie utilization.
Now that you know the harms of eating late at night, what changes will you make to your meal schedule?