Late-Night Eating Linked to Higher Liver Disease Risk

Study Links Late-Night Eating to Increased Liver Disease Risk

Eating late at night, whether it's a full meal or a snack, has been associated with a significantly higher risk of developing liver disease, according to new research. While previously linked primarily to weight gain, scientists now believe late-night eating may directly impact liver health.

Research Findings on Liver Health and Eating Habits

The study, published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, analyzed data from approximately 200,000 individuals across three long-running U.S. research projects. The findings indicate that individuals who eat after dinner or after going to bed face an increased likelihood of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, commonly known as fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis.

Circadian Rhythms and Liver Function

Dr. Robert Wilechansky, lead author from Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), highlighted the liver's sensitivity to the body's internal clock. "We know the liver is very much in tune with the body’s circadian rhythms," Dr. Wilechansky stated. "So we’re interested in changing the timing of eating in a way that could make a difference in health without changing the composition of what people eat." The research observed a 20% to 30% increase in all forms of liver disease among those who reported late-night eating habits compared to those who did not.