Eating Dinner Late Night Can Harm Your Heart Health, Here's What Expert Says

Hectic schedule left us no time to follow specific routine these days. We have our dinner at 10 pm or even later. Some people reach home early and watch TV or phone while eating. This routine is followed thinking that nothing will happen. But scientists believe that this habit of eating late at night and watching phone or TV is making our heart healthy.

Researchers from Northwestern University in the US studied this habit in depth. They neither asked people to reduce calories nor change their diet. They suggested only one change, which is to eat dinner at least 3 hours before going to bed.

Biological clock and meal time

Our body runs on a 24-hour biological clock. Which is called circadian rhythm. But when we eat dinner late at night, the body gets a signal that it is still day. Bright light from above and the phone screen further delay the preparation for sleep. Which puts pressure on the heart and metabolism. According to the author of this study, Professor Phyllis Gee, it is not only important what and how much we eat. What is important is when we eat it.

What did the study find?

This study involved 39 overweight or obese people aged 36 to 75. All of them were at high risk of heart and metabolic diseases. The study lasted 7.5 weeks. The participants were divided into two groups. The first group continued to fast for 11 to 13 hours according to their usual habits. The second group increased the fasting time to 13 to 16 hours and stopped eating at least 3 hours before bedtime. Both groups were advised to dim the lights three hours before bedtime. So that the biological clock is balanced.

What was revealed?

After about 7.5 weeks, amazing changes were seen. Their blood pressure was found to be 3.5 percent lower at night. Heart rate was seen to be 5 percent lower during sleep. Blood sugar control was also improved, and insulin was also produced properly. This means that the body starts to balance day and night. A healthy pattern for the heart is considered to be high energy during the day and good rest at night.

Also Read: Healthy Body Signs: 5 Indicators Which Show You Are Truly Fit From Inside

Simple and effective solution

This research has shown that it is not always necessary to eat a lot and exercise to improve health. Sometimes, even a change in meal timing can make a big difference. This is a simple and good solution for middle-aged and elderly people, especially those at risk of heart disease or diabetes.