Dinner times in the UK have traditionally been around 7pm, but recent trends indicate that late-night dining is on the rise. This shift is linked to a decline in nightlife, with the UK losing over a third of its nightclubs between 2020 and 2024, according to the Night Time Industries Association. Rising operational costs and the ongoing cost of living crisis have led to reduced spending on nightlife activities. However, some people are still looking for ways to enjoy their evenings out. As a result, many restaurants have extended their hours, offering dinner reservations well past 10pm.
The move toward later dining reflects habits seen in other European countries, such as Spain, where it’s common to start dinner after 9pm, sometimes as late as 11pm.
While eating late may align with social habits, the impact on health is a subject of scientific study. Some research suggests that late-night meals can benefit people with diabetes by stabilizing blood sugar levels while they sleep. According to The Sleep Foundation, low blood sugar during sleep can cause night sweats, nightmares, and fatigue. Small, nutrient-rich snacks are recommended for maintaining blood sugar levels, rather than large, heavy meals.
Additionally, certain foods rich in tryptophan, serotonin, or melatonin, such as turkey, eggs, and cheese, can help promote sleep by making it easier to fall asleep. Feeling full before bed may also help with sleep quality.
However, eating late can worsen acid reflux for some individuals. Registered dietitian Jill Chodak warns that eating within two to three hours of bedtime can increase stomach acid production, leading to discomfort when lying down. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid moves up toward the throat, causing irritation and discomfort.
Late-night eating can also disturb sleep patterns. Experts from Harvard Medical School suggest that large, high-carbohydrate meals right before bed may trigger night sweats, as the body burns energy to metabolize food, which may lead to discomfort and disrupted sleep, possibly resulting in nightmares.
Moreover, several studies have raised concerns about the connection between late-night eating and weight gain. A 2022 study published in Cell Metabolism found that eating late at night leads to slower calorie burn and an increased likelihood of fat accumulation. The study’s senior author, Frank Scheer, noted that previous research has shown a link between late-night eating and obesity risk, as well as reduced success in weight loss.
Additionally, late-night eating can elevate the risk of diabetes, especially when high-sugar foods are consumed. In people already living with diabetes, it can contribute to hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar. However, it’s important to note that irregular sleep patterns and poor food choices can also play a role in these health risks.
In conclusion, while late-night dining is becoming more popular in the UK, it’s essential to be mindful of the potential health impacts, particularly in relation to acid reflux, sleep disruption, and long-term weight management.
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