IThe T is a line that has been rattling by nutritionists for decades. If food is consumed late in the evening, it is more likely to cause weight gain…but does that idea actually have feet?
Dr. Adrian Brown, a dietitian and senior researcher at University College London who specializes in weight management, says the evidence remains unknown. “There is data showing that people who eat late at night tend to be heavier,” he says. “However, they are associations and do not show that eating late at night causes ‘weight gain’. ”
He says that much of the research in this field focuses on our circadian rhythms. This internal clock prepares the body for periods of feeding, fasting and sleep, in sync with the rhythm of the day. The evidence shows that when we are out of sync with it, it can affect our weight. For example, a study of night shift workers shows that “they are more likely to be obese.”
But for many of us, if there is a link between late-night meals and our weight, then not when, but what, how, and why we eat in that era, and why. It may have something to do with why, why, why, why, why.
If you find that Brown leaves a long gap between meals and is very hungry before the next meal, this can lead to less healthy food choices. If you’ve developed the habit of eating and relaxing in the evening, you’re probably going to have snacks while watching TV – in addition to your regular diet, it could increase your calorie intake that day. The evidence suggests that stopping snacks by 9pm may be better for your health.
If you are worried about meal times and how they will affect nutrition, Brown’s advice is to ask your GP to refer you to a healthcare professional, such as a nutritionist. Lifestyle.
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Kate Lloyd
