A new study published in an international medical journal suggests that eating late at night or snacking during late hours may be harmful to overall health.
Researchers found that aligning meal timings with the body’s natural biological clock not only improves sleep–wake cycles but also has positive effects on heart health and metabolism.
According to experts, dysfunction in the cardio-metabolic system is linked to several chronic conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
The study further noted that regulating meal timings could, in some cases, offer benefits comparable to traditional calorie-restriction diets.
The research involved 39 overweight or obese participants aged between 36 and 75. Over a period of seven to seven-and-a-half weeks, one group was instructed to maintain a 13- to 16-hour fasting window overnight, while the other group continued with their usual eating patterns and schedules.
The results revealed that participants who avoided late-night eating showed significant improvements in heart health. Their nighttime blood pressure decreased by approximately 3.5 percent, while heart rate dropped by nearly 5 percent — indicators of a healthier cardiovascular system.
Experts explained that in a healthy body, heart rate and blood pressure are naturally higher during the day and decrease at night. This biological rhythm is associated with better heart health, and late-night eating may disrupt this balance.
The study also found improved blood sugar control during daytime hours. When participants were given glucose, their pancreas released insulin more effectively, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Researchers concluded that avoiding late-night snacks and maintaining structured meal timings can significantly benefit overall health, particularly for individuals with heart conditions or diabetes, offering notable long-term advantages.
