What late-night snacking and stress could mean for your gut health

Health & Fitness
23 Apr 2026 • 4:05 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • New research suggests that individuals experiencing stress who also indulge in late-night snacking may significantly increase their risk of developing bowel problems.
  • A study involving over 11,000 participants found that those with high chronic stress indicators 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 over 4,000 individuals in the American Gut Project reinforced these findings, showing a 2.5 times higher propensity for bowel issues among those with high stress and late-night snacking habits.
  • Lead author Dr Harika Dadigiri highlighted that it is not just what you eat, but when you eat it, especially under stress, that can deliver a 'double hit' to gut health.
  • Researchers recommend maintaining structured meal times and regular eating patterns to help promote better digestive function over time.

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