Skip to main content
Modern workspace with someone typing on a laptop.
Trendy hairstyles for women over 50 in 2026.
Donald Trump discusses maternal healthcare initiatives.

Food

The One Nighttime Mistake You Should Stop Making Because It Slows Down Your Metabolism

January 2, 2020 by Hannah Kerns
shefinds | Food
Featured image

Before going to bed, it’s important to make sure that you are not unnecessarily slowing down your metabolism. As your metabolism naturally slows down at night, paying close attention to what you eat before bed could make a big difference when it comes to weight loss.

Although it may seem obvious, the biggest nighttime mistake to avoid making is eating high fat and high sugar desserts right before bed.

house unit img
Women Are Swapping Their Boring Water For This Ice Pop Electrolyte Mix!
desserts

Lynell Ross, certified health & wellness coach, nutritionist, and founder of Zivadream, explains why you should not indulge in a midnight snack.

 

She explains, "While tempting as they may be, rich pasties, cakes and other desserts high in fat and sugar can keep your digestive system from working properly, causing stomach discomfort, gas and bloating, especially at night."

bloated stomach

If you load up on calories at the end of the night, you can hurt your metabolism in the long run.

 

Ross continues, "Keep late night snacks to 200 calories or under to help your stomach and digestive tract work properly, avoid bloating and to sleep better too."

Greek yogurt

If you do need a late night snack, try reaching for Greek yogurt instead. Lisa Richards, nutritionist and author of The Candida Diet, "Eating a low-fat, high protein in the evening or before bed can reduce cravings and prevent overeating. These two factors can lead to weight gain if not kept under control."

flat stomach

Richards continues, "Eating Greek yogurt before bed, or on a regular basis, replenishes your gut microbiome with healthy bacteria. Fermented foods like yogurt restore these bacteria which is beneficial for weight, among many other health benefits."

 

With that in mind, instead of going for a high fat and high sugar dessert, satisfy your cravings with some Greek yogurt instead.

Author:

Associate Editor

Hannah Kerns pitches and writes compelling stories for SheFinds' readers. When she isn't listening to podcasts or catching up on true crime, she covers the latest in beauty, health, fashion, and celebrity news. To reach Hannah, email hannah@shefinds.com.

Woman enjoying a cup of spearmint tea for beauty benefits.
Various types of bread displayed for healthy eating options.
Freshly baked goods at Costco bakery section.
Woman holding her head, feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
Woman experiencing joint pain, seeking relief and comfort.
Beauty-related image from Shutterstock showcasing vibrant aesthetics.
Popular fast food options from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks.
Woman adding sugar to aromatic coffee for flavor enhancement.
Wooden board with delicious bagels, blueberries, and butter.
Comparison of cooking spray and olive oil for healthy cooking.
Brazilian dish featuring rice, beans, and chicken in vibrant colors.
Checking the time while enjoying a healthy breakfast.
Deli meats displayed at a grocery store for meal prep.
Cooked salmon served with rice and greens for balanced meal.
Inside view of a Costco store showcasing bulk shopping.
Woman taking magnesium supplements for health benefits.
Selection of baked goods including s'mores brownies from Aldi.
Grilled chicken breast served with fries and fresh salad.
Frozen pizza available at the grocery store for convenience.
Fried fish and fries served as a classic comfort meal.
Woman enjoying a cup of spearmint tea for beauty benefits.
Various types of bread displayed for healthy eating options.
Freshly baked goods at Costco bakery section.
Woman holding her head, feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
Woman experiencing joint pain, seeking relief and comfort.
Beauty-related image from Shutterstock showcasing vibrant aesthetics.
Popular fast food options from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks.
Woman adding sugar to aromatic coffee for flavor enhancement.
Wooden board with delicious bagels, blueberries, and butter.
Comparison of cooking spray and olive oil for healthy cooking.
Brazilian dish featuring rice, beans, and chicken in vibrant colors.
Checking the time while enjoying a healthy breakfast.
Deli meats displayed at a grocery store for meal prep.
Cooked salmon served with rice and greens for balanced meal.
Inside view of a Costco store showcasing bulk shopping.
Woman taking magnesium supplements for health benefits.
Selection of baked goods including s'mores brownies from Aldi.
Grilled chicken breast served with fries and fresh salad.
Frozen pizza available at the grocery store for convenience.
Fried fish and fries served as a classic comfort meal.