Dinner is not just the end of the day, but an important part of a healthy lifestyle. It is the evening diet that determines how well you sleep, how your digestive system works, and whether you wake up easily the next morning. Nutritionists emphasize that it is not so important to not eat after 6:00 PM as to choose the right foods.
Fried meat and fatty foods
Fatty protein foods slow down digestion and prevent the body from resting. Evening steaks, sausages or French fries can cause heaviness, heartburn and even insomnia. It is better to replace them with baked chicken, steamed fish or a vegetable omelet. A light dinner will help avoid stomach problems and will not overload the liver.
Coffee, chocolate and energy drinks
Even a small dose of caffeine can affect the nervous system for several hours after consumption. This applies not only to coffee, but also to black tea, chocolate, and energy drinks. In the evening, it is better to choose herbal teas - with chamomile, mint, or lemon balm. They calm, relieve tension, and prepare the body for sleep.
White bread, pasta and sweets
Simple carbohydrates instantly increase blood sugar levels, but then cause a sharp drop, which can lead to nighttime hunger or restless sleep. Nutritionists advise choosing complex carbohydrates instead - buckwheat, quinoa, bulgur or oatmeal. They provide a long-lasting feeling of satiety without harming your figure.
Alcohol
Despite the myth that a glass of wine helps you fall asleep, alcohol actually worsens the quality of your sleep. It disrupts your natural rest phases, dehydrates your body, and causes swelling. A better alternative would be a glass of warm water with lemon or a non-alcoholic herbal drink.
Salty and smoked
Smoked meats, sausages, and canned goods contain excess salt, which retains water in the body and puts a strain on the kidneys. This often leads to morning edema. Instead, you should choose stewed vegetables, plain yogurt, or a slice of soft cheese — light foods that aid digestion.
Dinner should be light, nutritious, and not stimulating to the nervous system. The ideal time for the last meal is 2–3 hours before bedtime. If you choose healthy foods, your body will thank you with quality rest and good health in the morning.
