Late-night eating linked to 20%-30% higher risk of liver disease, study finds

A large observational study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology examined almost 200,000 adults across three cohorts and tracked health outcomes for an average of 16 years. Participants who reported eating after dinner or after going to bed showed a 20% to 30% higher incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and cirrhosis compared with those who did not snack late at night.

The researchers highlighted that the liver’s internal circadian clock regulates metabolism, and eating during the sleep phase may disrupt this rhythm. "We’re interested in changing the timing of eating in a way that could make a difference in health without changing the composition of what people eat," said lead author Dr. Robert Wilechansky.

MASLD, a common form of fatty liver disease, can progress to severe fibrosis or cirrhosis if left untreated. While most individuals with fatty liver do not develop advanced disease, the study noted that avoiding late-night snacks could lower the risk of such progression.

Co-author Dr. Andrew W. McHill added, "We are seeing over and over again that the timing of behaviors, whether it’s sleep, eating or exercise, really matters." The findings suggest that meal timing, in addition to dietary content, may be an important factor in preventing obesity, diabetes and liver-related health problems.