# Research on late-night eating and health risks > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/research-on-late-night-eating-and-health-risks > Updated: 2026-11-06T04:55:51.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2. Recent research has highlighted the physiological and health implications of consuming food late at night. Studies involving approximately 200,000 participants suggest that eating after dinner or immediately before sleep is associated with a 20 to 30 percent increased risk of developing cirrhosis or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Lead author Dr. Robert Wilechansky noted that the liver is closely aligned with the body’s circadian rhythm. Further investigation into the drivers of nighttime eating indicates that cravings are influenced by biological mechanisms. Experts note that the hunger hormone ghrelin typically rises later in the day, and the brain’s reward system may increase the desire for calorie-dense foods in the evening. While approximately one-third of adults snack nightly, this figure reaches 80 percent among young adults aged 18 to 24. To mitigate risks such as weight gain and obesity, nutritionists and dietitians recommend consuming protein and fiber-rich meals several hours before bedtime. ## Timeline ### 2026-11-06: Biological and behavioral factors drive late-night food cravings Experts attribute late-night snacking to rising ghrelin levels, brain reward systems, and dietary habits, noting that eating close to bedtime increases obesity risks. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/biological-and-behavioral-factors-drive-late-night-food-cravings ### 2026-10-31: Late-night eating linked to increased risk of liver disease A large-scale study links late-night eating to a 20 to 30 percent increased risk of liver disease, including cirrhosis and MASLD, due to disruptions in the body's circadian rhythm. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/late-night-snacking-linked-to-increased-liver-disease-risk --- Cite as: Research on late-night eating and health risks. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/research-on-late-night-eating-and-health-risks