Benefits of Early Dinner: Reducing GERD Risk and Health Benefits

Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a distinguished neurologist at Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad, has shed light on the advantages of having an early dinner. In a recent post on the social media platform X, he outlined two compelling reasons for embracing the practice of dining early.

First and foremost, Dr. Kumar stressed that an early dinner can significantly lower the risk of developing GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, a condition where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, leading to discomfort, heartburn, and potential damage to the esophagus, pharynx, and respiratory tract.

Additionally, Dr. Kumar emphasized that restricting the time window for eating by opting for an early dinner can yield a multitude of health benefits. This practice has been linked to a reduced risk of obesity, diabetes, and several other diseases. The rationale behind this lies in the body’s ability to digest food more effectively when there is a sufficient gap between the last meal of the day and bedtime.

Dr. Kumar also provided historical context to support his recommendations. He noted that in previous generations, including our grandparents, it was customary to have dinner shortly after sunset, aligning with the body’s natural circadian rhythm. Late-night dinners and social activities that extend into the late hours, such as pubs and parties, have become more prevalent in recent times, spanning approximately the last two decades.

In response to a comment from a user who questioned the practicality of having dinner by 7 pm, particularly for individuals with commitments that extend past that hour, Dr. Kumar emphasized the importance of avoiding late-night dinners due to the increased risk of developing GERD.

GERD, a prevalent condition, is characterized by symptoms such as heartburn, the regurgitation of sour or bitter fluids into the throat or mouth, non-burning chest discomfort, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and atypical symptoms that may affect the throat, larynx, or respiratory system, including a sore throat, persistent coughing, increased salivation, and breathlessness.

In summary, Dr. Sudhir Kumar’s insights underscore the advantages of adopting an early dinner routine, including a reduced risk of GERD and potential health benefits. While modern lifestyles have encouraged late-night dining, the wisdom of our ancestors who dined early is being revisited for the potential health advantages it offers.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The India Today