Late-night snacking carries a serious health risk, new study finds
The Independent • • health
Key Points:
- A study of nearly 200,000 U.S. adults found that late-night snacking after the evening meal increases the risk of cirrhosis and fatty liver disease by 20-30 percent, both potentially fatal liver conditions.
- Researchers suggest the increased risk may be linked to disruptions in the body's circadian rhythm, which affects metabolism and liver function.
- Night shift workers, who often experience circadian misalignment, have higher rates of obesity, heart disease, and liver issues, highlighting the importance of meal timing.
- The study emphasizes that changing the timing of eating, rather than the food composition, could improve liver health, with further research ongoing.
- Chronic liver disease causes over 52,000 deaths annually in the U.S., and symptoms of advanced liver disease include fatigue, jaundice, and loss of appetite.
