Nocturnal Acid Reflux: How Meal Timing Affects Nighttime GERD Episodes
How Does Meal Timing Affect Nighttime Acid Reflux and Sleep?
Meal timing significantly affects nocturnal acid reflux episodes, with late evening meals dramatically increasing nighttime GERD symptoms and sleep disruption, this research demonstrates. The study found that consuming meals within 3 hours of bedtime increased nocturnal reflux episodes by 67% compared to eating 4+ hours before sleep, with participants experiencing more frequent awakening due to heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort. Late meals also prolonged the time required for gastric emptying and increased esophageal acid exposure during sleep, when natural protective mechanisms like swallowing and saliva production are reduced. The research reveals that the supine position combined with recent food intake creates optimal conditions for gastroesophageal reflux, making meal timing a crucial factor in managing GERD symptoms and sleep quality.