News India Live, Digital Desk: If you are also fond of eating chips, biscuits or ice cream after 11 pm, then be careful. Recent research shows that the body’s ability to burn calories decreases significantly at night. When we eat late at night, instead of using that energy, our body starts storing it in the form of fat, due to which the risk of obesity increases manifold. Why is eating late at night dangerous? (The Science Behind It) Slowing down of metabolism: Our ‘metabolic rate’ is lowest at night. Heavy food eaten during this time is not digested properly. Insulin resistance: Snacking at night increases the blood sugar level in the body, which increases the risk of type-2 diabetes. Sleep disturbance: Eating late at night keeps the digestive system active, which prevents deep sleep (REM sleep) and the next day you feel tired and irritable. What does the research say? According to studies, people who eat heavy food after 8 pm Or take snacks, their BMI (Body Mass Index) was found to be higher than those who eat food early in the evening. Eating late at night increases ‘ghrelin’ (hormone that increases appetite) and decreases ‘leptin’ (hormone that makes you feel full), due to which you eat more than required. How to control hunger late at night? If you do feel hungry at night, then follow these smart tips: Protein-rich dinner: Include pulses, cheese or eggs in dinner, so that the stomach remains full for a long time. Stay hydrated: Many times we mistake thirst for hunger. Are. When you feel hungry, first drink a glass of lukewarm water. Choose healthy option: If it is difficult to stop, have roasted makhana, nuts or a cup of herbal tea instead of chips. Reduce screen time: While watching phone or TV, we unknowingly eat more (Mindless Eating). Stay away from gadgets while eating.