PARIS: A new study, examining over 100,000 participants in France, has highlighted a potential connection between late dinners and an increased risk of strokes and mini-strokes. The research, spanning an average of seven years, found that individuals consuming dinner after 9 pm faced a 28% higher likelihood of experiencing cardiovascular events compared to those who dined before 8 pm.
The study, published in Nature Communications, focused on meal timing as a crucial factor in understanding the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Approximately 2,000 cases of heart attacks and strokes were identified during the research.
Dr Bernard Srour, the senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of considering meal timing, suggesting that our evolutionary patterns may favor earlier eating. While more research is needed to establish conclusive links, animal studies have indicated potential associations between late-night digestion and increased blood sugar and pressure.
Health Risks Associated with Late Dinners
The findings underscore the health risks associated with late-night dining, particularly for individuals with busy schedules. Women, constituting nearly 80% of the study participants, showed significant implications for cardiovascular health based on meal timing.
The study revealed that while there was no heightened risk of coronary heart problems for those eating dinner after 9 pm, each hour delay in dinner was associated with an 8% increased risk of strokes or mini-strokes. Additionally, every hour delay in breakfast was linked to a 6% higher risk of various cardiovascular diseases.
The research supports earlier studies suggesting that prolonged overnight fasting might contribute to better health outcomes, especially for those who consume dinner early.
