New research suggests that individuals under chronic stress who also snack late at night may be delivering a 'double hit' to their gut health, significantly increasing the risk of bowel problems.
US researchers analysed data from over 11,000 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. They found that those with high allostatic load scores—an indicator of chronic stress—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 more than 4,000 individuals in the American Gut Project reinforced these findings. Participants reporting high stress levels alongside late-night snacking were 2.5 times more prone to developing bowel issues.
Lead author Dr Harika Dadigiri, of New York Medical College at Saint Mary’s and Saint Clare’s Hospital, said: 'It’s not just what you eat, but when you eat it. And when we’re already under stress, that timing may deliver a “double hit” to gut health.'
The researchers suggest that maintaining structured meal times could help people eat at more regular times. 'Everyone should eat their ice cream – maybe preferably earlier in the day,' Dr Dadigiri added. 'Small, consistent habits, like maintaining a structured meal routine, may help promote more regular eating patterns and support digestive function over time.'
The findings will be presented at Digestive Disease Week in Chicago from May 2 to May 5.
