May 18, 2024, 06:51 PM IST

5 side effects of eating late at night

Pavan Naidu

Late-night eating has become a common habit for many people, often due to busy schedule or simple way to unwind themselves.

However, consuming dinner late at night can have harmful effects on both our physical and mental health.

Here are five side effects of eating dinner late.

Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Consuming a heavy meal close to bedtime can disrupt your body's sleep patterns. The digestive system works overtime to process the food, leading to discomfort and indigestion, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Acid Reflux: Avoid late-night meals as it can trigger acid reflux and heartburn. The stomach takes longer to empty when we lie down, increasing the chances of experiencing acid reflux symptoms.

Weight Gain: Eating late at night can contribute to weight gain as the body may not have enough time to metabolise the food properly. The excess calories consumed during dinner can be stored as fat, especially if physical activity levels are low during the evening.

Impaired Cognitive Function: Studies have shown that eating late at night can impair cognitive function, affecting memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. The brain requires proper rest and nutrition and late-night eating habits can obstruct that.

Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases: People who regularly eat dinner late may be at a higher risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Poor eating habits, including late-night dining, can contribute to metabolic issues and inflammation in the body.

Disclaimer: This content including advice gives generic information only and is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion.

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