Diseases that can be caused by frequent late-night snacking
According to Dr. Veena Pai, a nutritionist at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai (India), the body's sensitivity to insulin gradually decreases later in the day. This means that when you snack late at night, the body does not effectively process carbohydrates and sugar in food.
Snacks like French fries, corn and candy are rich in cholesterol, sodium, added sugars and preservatives, which can increase blood sugar levels.
Dr. Hridish Narayan Chakravarti, a diabetes specialist at Narayana Hospital (India), also affirmed that eating late at night with low insulin sensitivity can increase blood sugar levels compared to during the day. At night, metabolism slows down due to the body's circadian rhythm, causing the body to not process glucose effectively and causing blood sugar levels to increase overnight.
This habit can lead to insulin resistance, weight gain, and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in the long run. In addition, eating late at night can also cause sleep disturbances, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular problems.
Unhealthy late-night eating habits can increase blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease over time, Dr. Hridish Narayan Chakravarti emphasized and noted that late-night eating, especially indigestible dishes such as fried foods and greasy foods, can increase the burden on the digestive system.
When the body is no longer active at night, the digestion process also slows down, leading to a feeling of fullness and indigestion.
How to limit late-night snacking
Nutritionists recommend avoiding late snacking or choosing snacks that are low in sugar and high in fiber. If you still want to eat late at night, divide it into small portions and do light exercise to burn excess calories. Controlling this eating habit will help improve overall health and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Plan a full and balanced meal: Make sure your dinner has enough nutrients (protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates) to help you feel full longer and limit hunger at night.
Drink water or herbal tea: Sometimes feeling hungry late at night is just a feeling of thirst. Drinking a cup of warm water or herbal tea like chamomile tea can help you relax and forget your appetite.
Go to bed earlier: One of the reasons why many people snack late is staying up late. Going to bed early helps you not have time to crave snacks and helps the body recover better.
Make a habit of relaxing before bed: Do activities that help reduce stress, such as reading, listening to light music, or meditation. Stress and anxiety can make you snack more.
