Stress combined with late-night eating could be linked to digestive issues, a recent study reveals. Consuming food late at night could negatively impact gut health, especially for individuals already experiencing high stress levels, according to experts.
In a study analyzing data from over 11,000 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, researchers observed that individuals with elevated allostatic load scores, indicating chronic stress effects on the body, who consumed a significant portion of their daily calories after 9 pm, were 1.7 times more likely to experience constipation and diarrhea.
Similarly, an examination of data from more than 4,000 individuals in the American Gut Project showed that those with heightened stress levels who indulged in late-night snacks were 2.5 times more likely to encounter bowel-related problems. Dr. Harika Dadigiri, the lead author from New York Medical College at Saint Mary’s and Saint Clare’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of not only what but also when individuals eat, particularly when stress levels are high.
The researchers recommend adhering to structured meal times as a strategy to promote more consistent eating habits. Dr. Dadigiri highlighted the significance of establishing a routine for meals, suggesting that simple habits like this could contribute to regular eating patterns and enhance digestive function over time.
These research findings are scheduled for presentation at Digestive Disease Week, occurring in Chicago from May 2 to May 5.