People in modern society live a fast-paced life with many social engagements, often finishing dinner close to bedtime. New research warns that this habit not only easily leads to weight gain but may also increase the risk of stroke. A study presented at the 2011 European Society of Cardiology annual meeting showed that waiting at least 1 hour after dinner before sleeping can reduce the risk of stroke by about two-thirds, with an additional 10% risk reduction for every extra 20 minutes of waiting.
Researchers from the University of Ioannina School of Medicine in Greece studied 500 healthy individuals, 250 stroke patients, and 250 patients who had previously suffered from acute cardiovascular diseases, asking them to complete a questionnaire covering sleep patterns and dietary habits. The study found that compared to those who went to bed within an hour after eating, people who waited 60-70 minutes between their meal and sleep had a 66% lower risk of stroke, while those with an interval of 70 minutes to 2 hours had a 76% lower risk.
Researchers believe that when people eat, their blood sugar and cholesterol levels rise, and blood flow slows down. Over time, all these temporary changes can increase the risk of stroke.