Late-night snacking warning: Expert explains how eating before bed can trigger ACID reflux, bloating and gut problems
Eating before bedtime may harm digestion. Know how late-night snacking can lead to acid reflux, bloating, indigestion, and other gut health problems.
Late-night snacking tends to be a common occurrence for many. Now just because people can't sleep without fueling themselves and eat late at night or because of stress, schedules or hunger. But health experts say that this habit is bad for your digestive system, and can result in various gastrointestinal issues in the long-term.
According to Ms Ginni Kalra, Dietician, Aakash Healthcare, "Digestive system clock and operates on its own body clock, or circadian rhythm. The body dictates its diligence in the digestion of food during the day. However, during the night, when the body is preparing for recovery and sleep, the digestive process slows down. During this period, anything and everything large means extra burden on the digestive systems and anything unheathy means weight gain."
Why digestion slows down at night?
Body's metabolism is naturally slower during the night. People who eat late have to work much harder to digest their food before going to sleep. This may slow down digestion and lead to incomplete emptying of the stomach.
Level as a result, individuals might experience discomfort, bloating and an a sense of weight gain prior to sleep. Obesity caused by late-night snacking can also cause trouble digesting food and have an impact on gut health.
Increased risk of acid reflux
Acid reflux is the second most frequently mentioned gastrointestinal problem associated with eating at night. Occurs when the stomach backflows into the food pipe and leads to a burning sensation in the chest (also called heartburn).
Relaxing quickly after food helps to prevent stomach acid rising up the stomach. There are some foods that have a greater tendency to even further exacerbate reflux symptoms due to their high fat, spice, sugar or caffeine content. If the acid reflux occurs regularly, without treatment it could contribute to more severe digestive disorders.
Bloating and indigestion
Late meals are also liable to cause bloating and indigestion. Nature's digestion works more slowly at night, and so does the food sit in the stomach. This can cause gas, bloating and stomach cramps. Those who often eat late meals or snacks at night can experience symptoms such as cramps, too much flatulence or a feeling of fullness in the morning after waking up.
Impact on gut health
There may be a balance of good bacteria in an individual's gut, and eating at odd hours can interfere with this balance, experts say. These microorganisms are essential for digestion, immunity and also health in general. It is possible that the changes in feeding habits could cause a decrease in gut bacteria which can lead to digestive problems in the long term.
How to protect your digestive health?
It is advised by experts to do dinner at least two-three hours before the bedtime. At night, if hunger hits, opt for something light and healthy like a fruit, yoghurt or a handful of nuts, rather than chips and dips etc.
Stick to a regular eating schedule, refrain from eating too much at night, drink fluids regularly and ensure proper rest, can also promote healthy digestion.
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.
