4. Late-night Eating: Racing Against the Digestive Clock
There’s a nocturnal allure to snacking late into the night. Whether it’s the calm of the night or a favorite show that keeps us up, these meals often come with a cost. Eating just before hitting the sack can challenge our digestive systems in unexpected ways.
The body’s circadian rhythm, our internal clock, governs more than just our sleep-wake cycle. It also dictates certain digestive processes. By eating late, we’re forcing our stomach to work overtime, disrupting its natural resting phase.
During sleep, our digestive processes slow down. Food consumed late doesn’t get processed as efficiently, leading to it sitting in the stomach for prolonged periods. This stagnation can cause acid to build up, ushering in that all too familiar sense of unease.
The solution isn’t to starve but to be mindful. If late-night munchies are inevitable, opting for lighter, easily digestible foods can be a game-changer. As night descends, giving our stomach a smoother ride can pave the way for both sound sleep and a contented belly. (4)
