Dinner is often a time for families to gather and share meals. However, some people avoid eating dinner due to concerns about weight gain. So, when is the best time to have dinner?

The Best Time for Dinner

People generally eat three main meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While dinner is sometimes skipped due to fears of weight gain, it actually plays an important role in providing necessary calories and nutrients for the body.

For those who practice fasting or intermittent fasting, dinner becomes a crucial time to replenish nutrients after a day of fasting.

Beyond nutrition, dinner also has a social function. Studies suggest that family dinners contribute to better academic performance, improved nutrition, and a reduced risk of childhood obesity.

The ideal dinner time varies depending on location and individual health needs. In the United States, dinner is typically eaten between 5:07 p.m. and 8:19 p.m., while in parts of Europe and Asia, it ranges between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

For those following a weight loss program, research indicates that eating dinner before sunset may be beneficial. Having dinner too late can disrupt circadian rhythms and interfere with sleep. In Indonesia, an ideal dinner time for weight management is around 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

For individuals with GERD, it is recommended to avoid consuming heavy meals too close to bedtime. GERD occurs due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter, and symptoms can worsen due to stress, specific foods, meal composition, and eating schedule.

Eating dinner too late can increase the likelihood of acid reflux. To minimize this risk, GERD sufferers should aim to eat dinner at least three hours before sleeping.

What Happens If You Skip Dinner?

Skipping dinner can lead to disruptions in eating patterns, potentially altering circadian rhythms and causing sleep disturbances. It may also lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, resulting in energy depletion, tremors, and increased stress.

In the long run, skipping dinner has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Among the elderly, it may also impact mental health. A 2020 study found that older adults who regularly skipped meals were more likely to experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia compared to those who maintained consistent meal schedules.

Other potential health consequences of skipping dinner include:

• Weakness and fatigue
• Reduced cognitive function
• Slower metabolism
• Decreased satisfaction with food
• Increased irritability
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Digestive problems

Dinner is an important meal that helps meet the body’s nighttime nutritional needs. Skipping dinner can disrupt circadian rhythms and impact overall health and energy levels.

If you are considering adjusting your diet, consulting a nutritionist or dietitian is advisable. For additional guidance on nutrition, you can use the consultation feature on the Ai Care application, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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