According to a recent study, the combination of stress and late-night snacking could contribute to digestive issues. Researchers found that individuals experiencing high levels of stress and consuming a significant portion of their daily calories after 9pm were more likely to suffer from constipation and diarrhea.
The study, which analyzed data from over 11,000 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, revealed that those with elevated allostatic load scores, indicating chronic stress effects on the body, faced a 1.7 times higher risk of bowel problems when late-night snacking was involved.
An additional investigation involving data from more than 4,000 individuals in the American Gut Project showed that individuals with heightened stress levels who indulged in late-night snacks were 2.5 times more prone to experiencing digestive issues. Dr. Harika Dadigiri, the lead author from New York Medical College, emphasized the importance of meal timing in relation to stress levels, stating that eating habits could impact gut health significantly.
To mitigate these risks, researchers recommended maintaining consistent meal times to establish regular eating patterns. Dr. Dadigiri highlighted the significance of structured meal routines in promoting digestive function and overall gut health over time.
The study’s findings will be presented at Digestive Disease Week, scheduled to take place in Chicago from May 2 to May 5.