For Kareena Kapoor Khan, a good Indian meal every day is non-negotiable. Other things on that list include sleep and fitness routine, which she has carefully tweaked and tuned to suit her needs. Her routine at 44, she admits, is ‘almost monastic’. “Dinner by 6 pm, lights out by 9:30 pm, morning workouts before the world wakes up,” she said in an interview.
“My friends know not to expect me at parties. And they respect that. They know I’ll be watching Schitt’s Creek on low volume!” Khan added.
According to her, the Covid-19 pandemic changed something in her. “If I don’t work out, I’m in a bad mood. Post-covid, I realised how important fitness is—not for vanity, but for well-being. It’s my mood stabiliser, my anchor,” Khan, who is often seen doing yoga, strength training, or taking a walk, told The Nod magazine.
Taking a cue from her revelation, let’s learn how early dinners can benefit your metabolism and overall health.
Eating dinner earlier in the evening, around 6:30 pm, can have several positive effects on metabolism and overall health, particularly for individuals aged 44-45, said Dr Aarti Ullal, physician and diabetologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai.
“Firstly, having an early dinner allows more time for digestion before bedtime. This can improve gastrointestinal function, reduce the risk of acid reflux, and promote more restful sleep. A well-rested body is essential for metabolic health, as sleep is linked to hormone regulation, including those that control hunger and appetite,” said Dr Ullal.
What does dinner look like? (Photo: Freepik)
It can also help stabilise blood sugar levels. “When dinner is timed appropriately, it allows the body to use glucose more efficiently, reducing the risk of insulin resistance, a common concern as we age. Lowered insulin levels can aid in weight management and decrease the risk of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes,” said Dr Ullal.
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Eating earlier can also encourage healthier food choices. “When we eat late, there is a tendency to opt for quick, often less nutritious options. With an earlier dinner, individuals can prepare balanced meals, incorporating whole foods rich in nutrients, which are important for maintaining muscle mass and energy levels during middle age,” said Dr Ullal.
Lastly, social and family routines can benefit from this practice, allowing more time to unwind after dinner and engage in physical activity, whether it’s a post-meal walk or preparing for bed.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
