- New research suggests that individuals experiencing stress who also indulge in late-night snacking may significantly increase their risk of developing bowel problems.
- A study involving over 11,000 participants found that those with high chronic stress indicators who consumed a quarter of their daily calories after 9 pm were 1.7 times more likely to experience constipation and diarrhoea.
- Further analysis of data from over 4,000 individuals in the American Gut Project reinforced these findings, showing a 2.5 times higher propensity for bowel issues among those with high stress and late-night snacking habits.
- Lead author Dr Harika Dadigiri highlighted that it is not just what you eat, but when you eat it, especially under stress, that can deliver a 'double hit' to gut health.
- Researchers recommend maintaining structured meal times and regular eating patterns to help promote better digestive function over time.
IN FULL
How stress and late night snacking could be ruining your gut health