How effective is skipping dinner at night for weight loss

Not eating at night may result in short-term weight loss, but in the long run it may affect metabolism and lead to nutritional imbalance. The weight loss effect varies from person to person and is related to the balance of daily calorie intake and expenditure.

Reducing dinner intake may lower the total calorie intake throughout the day and result in short-term weight loss. But the human body will activate protective mechanisms during prolonged fasting, reducing basal metabolic rate to preserve energy. Long term dinner loss may lead to muscle loss, as the body breaks down muscles for energy when protein intake is insufficient. Long term emptying of the gastrointestinal tract may lead to excessive secretion of gastric acid, causing discomfort such as acid reflux and stomach pain. Some people who are excessively hungry at night are prone to overeating at breakfast the next day, which can lead to excessive calorie intake.

Some special populations need to use this method with caution. Patients with diabetes may suffer from nocturnal hypoglycemia, and pregnant women and adolescents may suffer from malnutrition. Fasting in individuals with gastrointestinal diseases may worsen the condition. Individuals with thyroid dysfunction have decreased metabolic regulation ability, and dieting can easily lead to metabolic disorders. Long term extreme dieting in women may lead to menstrual disorders or even amenorrhea.

It is recommended to achieve healthy weight loss by adjusting the diet structure. Dinner can reduce the intake of staple foods in moderation, but it is necessary to ensure protein and vegetable intake. Regular exercise can effectively maintain muscle mass and basal metabolic rate. If you need to lose weight through dietary control, it is recommended to develop a personalized plan under the guidance of a nutritionist to avoid blind dieting and health risks.