Twelve Dangers of Sleeping Immediately After Eating

Sleeping immediately after a meal is often comfortable, but this habit can cause a range of health problems because the digestive system is still active. When a person goes to bed right away, digestion can be disrupted as lying down may cause food and stomach acid to travel more easily up the oesophagus, potentially triggering GERD or heartburn. Undigested food can also cause abdominal discomfort. Disrupted digestion can lead to excessive gas and a bloated stomach. People with a history of gastritis are at greater risk of stomach pain or burning. The sleeping position can press on the stomach and acid, triggering nausea. A body still digesting food may lead to poorer, less restful sleep. Calories from food not yet used by the body can be more readily stored as fat. Acid reflux into the oesophagus can cause a burning sensation in the chest. This habit can affect the body’s metabolic processes over the long term. Reflux into the throat can make the throat feel uncomfortable. Digestive inefficiency can increase the risk of gastric disorders if it occurs repeatedly. Sleeping after a meal can leave the body tired and not refreshed upon waking. To protect digestive health, it is advisable to wait about 2 to 3 hours after eating before sleeping so the body has enough time to digest the food properly. Sources: Alodokter, Halodoc.