Does eating late at night really make you gain more weight?
I’m asked this question regularly — and yes, eating late can indeed lead to weight gain.
A key point to remember if you do eat later than normal is that the meal needs to be light, but protein-based. In addition, when combined with caffeine and alcohol, that late meal or snack can cause problems as you attempt to obtain restful sleep at night.
The biggest mistake people make when eating a late meal is that they generally choose food that’s heavy on carbs. Those carbs convert to sugar overnight. That wreaks havoc on the body’s glucose (sugar) levels which, in turn, results in poor rest. Some people even wake up the next morning with a sugar “hangover.”
Then the post-binge guilt sets in, and you think you must go without eating. Before you know it, you’ve gone over 12 hours without eating — and have usually started loading up with caffeine for energy — and your metabolism has shut down.
Here’s a comparison most drivers can relate to: It’s like trying to run your truck without fuel; you have to get out and push it down the road.
First of all, you won’t have the strength or energy to push your “truck” because your body’s fuel tank is empty. Your system will start eating away at the body’s muscle tissue, not the fat. You must properly fuel your system for it to run effectively and support recommended health levels. Running on empty is not good.
Your doctor or dietician can tell you what to do to keep your “engine” in tip-top shape, but only you can make the choices each day that lead to good health. Here are a few tips:
- Eat “colors.”
When it comes to fruits and vegetables, the more vivid the color, the more vitamins, and minerals. Eating a good variety of fruits and veggies can help control your weight and lower your blood pressure.
- Eat more fish.
Adding fish to your diet at least twice a week will boost your omega-3 fatty acids and help lower your risk of coronary artery disease.
- Cut the fat.
Fried foods, partially hydrogenated oils, and saturated fats should be kept to a minimum.
- Do your homework.
Read the product labels to ensure you’re not overloading with sugar and carbs to get the necessary protein.
It’s time to learn to listen to your body. Stay tuned for more tips, and thanks for reading.
