It’s no secret that eating unhealthy foods can make you feel tired and lethargic. But did you know that eating certain foods too close to bedtime can also keep you up at night? Eating late at night can be a bad idea for a number of reasons. First, your body has a harder time digesting food when you’re lying down, which can lead to indigestion and heartburn. Second, eating close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep, making it harder to get a good night’s rest. Finally, late-night snacking can contribute to weight gain because your body is more likely to store calories from late-night meals as fat. If you want to avoid indigestion, insomnia and weight gain, here are five foods you should avoid eating at night or just before bed.
The sweets :
Cookies, sweets, dark chocolate, sweets, … We all have a weakness for this type of food despite being aware of their disadvantages on our health, in particular, weight gain. It is important all the same to avoid consuming it in the evening. First, sugar can cause blood sugar spikes, which can lead to difficulty sleeping. Second, sugar is highly addictive, and eating sweets in the evening can lead to cravings for sweeter foods during the day. Finally, sugar can have a negative impact on dental health, as it promotes the development of bacteria responsible for cavities. The next time you’re tempted to grab a sugary snack before bed, remember that it might not be the best choice for your health.
The cold cuts :
Many people like to eat deli meats for dinner, but there are a few downsides to consider. First, deli meats are often high in sodium, which can cause bloating and water retention. Plus, they’re usually processed meats, which means they’re high in artificial ingredients and preservatives. These additives can be harsh on the digestive system and can lead to constipation or other digestive upsets. Finally, deli meats tend to be quite fatty, which can make you feel sluggish and contribute to weight gain. If you’re looking for a healthy, balanced meal, avoid heading to the deli aisle at lunchtime.
Fries:
It’s no secret that fried foods aren’t the healthiest. Known for their enormous calorie content, fried foods are the real source of fat, which can easily contribute to weight gain. They are among the main causes of the risk of chronic health problems and heart disease. But did you know that eating fried foods at night can also be bad for your sleep? Fried foods tend to be heavy and greasy, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. Also, they can cause heartburn and indigestion, which can keep you up at night. If you want to get a good night’s sleep, it is therefore best to avoid fried foods in the evening. Instead, opt for lighter options, such as grilled or roasted chicken or fish. You’ll sleep better and wake up refreshed and ready to start your day.
Fruits rich in vitamin C:
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin essential for human health. It plays an important role in many bodily functions, including collagen formation and iron absorption. Although it is generally accepted that vitamin C is good for your health, there are a few downsides to eating fruits rich in vitamin C in the evening. For one, the acidity of citrus fruits can cause heartburn and indigestion. Also, the sugar in many fruits can interfere with sleep. What is certain is that vitamin C is excreted in the urine, so eating citrus fruits in the evening may lead to increased bathroom visits. Therefore, if you want to get a good night’s rest, it is best to avoid eating fruits right before bed. However, if you crave something sweet before bed, try opting for a quieter fruit like a banana or grape. These fruits are lower in sugar and acidity, and they are less likely to keep you up at night.
Example of fruits rich in vitamin C to avoid in the evening: Orange, lemon, kiwi, red fruits, grapefruit, lychee, blackcurrant, guava, mango, melon and papaya.
Cheese :
Eating cheese in the evening can have some downsides. First, it can be hard on your digestive system. Cheese is high in fat and cholesterol, which can slow digestion and lead to bloating, indigestion, and even constipation. Additionally, eating cheese in the evening may promote weight gain. Since cheese is also high in calories, it can put on extra pounds if you’re not careful. Finally, eating cheese in the evening can increase the risk of developing cavities. The sugar in cheese can support the growth of bacteria in your mouth, which leads to cavities. So, even if a little cheese does not hurt, it is best to consume it in moderation, especially in the evening!
Tips to avoid eating in the evening:
Eating at night can be a tough habit to break, but it’s worth it for your health! Here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth once you finish your dinner, it prevents you from snacking in the evening in front of the television.
- Plan your meals in advance to avoid feeling hungry later. A healthy snack before bed can also help keep you going until morning.
- Try to keep the triggers that make you want to eat in the evening out of sight. This means that you should not have snacks in one of your bedroom drawers or on the table.
- If you are hungry, drink a glass of water or herbal tea first. Often we think we are hungry when we are simply thirsty.
