Overview
- An analysis of more than 15,000 people led by New York Medical College’s Dr. Harika Dadigiri found those who ate over 25% of their daily calories after 9 p.m. were up to 2.5 times more likely to report intestinal issues like constipation or diarrhea.
- The link was stronger in people showing signs of physical stress, with risk rising by up to about 70% when markers such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a higher body mass index were present.
- Participants who tied discomfort to late meals showed lower gut microbiota diversity, a sign of a less balanced mix of gut bacteria that can affect digestion.
- The research team describes the results as preliminary and plans a formal presentation at Digestive Disease Week in Chicago for wider review.
- While the study is observational and cannot prove cause and effect, clinicians recommend practical steps such as finishing dinner two to three hours before sleep, choosing lighter evening meals, and eating slowly to ease morning bloating and improve sleep.