Counsel #17 — Fueling Night’s Rest

Picture: Counsel #17 — Fueling Night’s RestCWe 124.1

Eating late at night, especially foods high in fat or sugar can disrupt sleep by triggering an insulin release, which signals the brain to stay alert. Furthermore, consuming high-carb foods before bed causes a spike in blood sugar, which often leads to frequent wakeups throughout the night.^{[135]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6wHdZXt4Ao}CWe 124.2

Late-night eating also interferes with the body’s circadian rhythm, our natural sleep-wake cycle. When we eat close to bedtime, our core body temperature rises, making it harder to fall asleep. To prevent sleep disruption or insomnia, aim to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before going to bed. This habit helps reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, acid reflux, and heartburn, which can make sleep restless and less restorative. By timing meals earlier in the evening, you support your body’s natural rhythms, promoting better digestion and a more restful night’s sleep.CWe 124.3

“In vain you rise up early and stay up late, eating the bread of toil—for He provides for His beloved ones even in their sleep.” Psalms 27:2 TLVCWe 124.4

“Another pernicious habit is that of eating just before bedtime…. The sleep is often disturbed with unpleasant dreams, an in the morning the persons awake unrefreshed and with little relish for breakfast. When we lie down to rest, the stomach should have its work all done, that it, as well as the other organs of the body, may enjoy rest.” Ellen White in The Ministry of Healing, pp. 303, 304CWe 124.5

Reflect: What time do you have your last meal/snack of the day, and how close is that to your bedtime?CWe 124.6