5 reasons one should start eating dinner early

Eating dinner earlier than usual may seem like a very small adjustment, but it can lead to big changes in our health and lifestyle. A 2021 study found that eating dinner late causes metabolic dysfunctions such as glucose

metabolism

. This gives rise to the idea of eating dinner early in the night, typically between 7-9 p.m. and not any later. Several studies have shown the advantages of eating an

early dinner

. Here are some of the reasons why eating early could greatly enhance our overall health.

Better digestion and less bloating

When we eat late at night, our digestive system has less time to metabolise the food before bedtime. This can cause bloating, indigestion, and even acid reflux. Eating dinner early gives the stomach enough time to digest before we lie down. This helps us feel lighter and more comfortable. It’s like giving our digestive system a head start so it can perform more efficiently.

Automatically improves sleep

Eating late can interfere with your sleep. Your body ends up focusing on digesting food instead of relaxing. By eating dinner early, your body has time to wind down, and you’re more likely to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep longer.
As per a study done in 2021, snacking after dinner and up until bedtime, are associated with irregular sleep patterns. A restful night’s sleep not only recharges you but also helps regulate hormones like cortisol and melatonin.

Helps maintain a healthy weight

Did you know that your body burns calories differently throughout the day? Eating earlier aligns better with your natural metabolism. According to a study published in 2021, eating an earlier evening meal resulted in favourable changes in weight loss. Early dinners help your body burn those calories more efficiently, whereas late-night meals are more likely to be stored as fat. It’s an easy and long-lasting way to control weight without going on a diet.

Healthy heart

Eating late can lead to blood sugar increases, high cholesterol, and possibly raise the risk of heart disease over time. When you eat early in the day, your body has more time to absorb sugars and fats before going to bed, which benefits your heart. It’s a small habit that can protect you from big problems in the long run.

Best thing for mental well-being

Early dinners can also benefit your mental health. A person’s circadian cycle could be disrupted by overeating. This will make them feel drowsy and tired the next day. But by allowing the body and brain to better coordinate, eating early improves our mood and energy levels. When we wake up, we feel refreshed and prepared to take on the day!