Eating late at night often occurs in addition to meals already consumed earlier in the day. If these late-night snacks or meals are high in calories, they can contribute to exceeding daily calorie needs, leading to weight gain over time.
Late-night eating may involve consuming high-calorie, high-fat, or high-sugar foods such as chips, sweets, or fast food. These choices can lead to weight gain, especially if they become a regular part of the diet.
Consuming large meals close to bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns and interfere with the body's natural circadian rhythms. Poor sleep quality and inadequate sleep duration have been associated with weight gain and obesity.
After eating late at night, individuals may be less likely to engage in physical activity or exercise, which can further contribute to weight gain by reducing overall calorie expenditure.
Some research suggests that eating late at night may negatively affect metabolism and the body's ability to process and store nutrients efficiently, potentially leading to weight gain.