Photo By Rodney Jackson | Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center has begun a Behavioral Health Initiative to inform...... read more read more
by 1st Lt. Frantz Moiseau, clinical social work intern, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center
Editor’s note: The Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center has begun a Behavioral Health Initiative to inform the community with information and resources that will help with everyday struggles like stress management, nutrition and physical health, emotional intelligence, and healthy habits. This article encourages healthy eating tweaks that may offer many different benefits for a healthier lifestyle.
FORT HOOD, Texas – The holidays are right around the corner, and for many of us, that means one thing — food. Big family dinners, comfort classics, and those irresistible holiday desserts. We gather around the table, fill our plates, and walk away feeling satisfied… maybe too satisfied. But here’s a thought — what if those generous portions we love so much are doing more harm than good? Have you ever gone to bed feeling uncomfortably full, tossed and turned all night, and woke up groggy or skipped breakfast the next morning? It’s not just you — and it’s not a coincidence. Eating lighter at dinner isn’t just a “diet trick.” It’s a simple lifestyle tweak that can make a huge difference in how you sleep, digest, and feel overall. Our bodies naturally slow down at night. When we load up on heavy food close to bedtime, we’re basically asking our systems to pull an all-nighter while the rest of us is trying to rest. That’s why eating smaller portions and keeping things simple can help your body recharge instead of overwork. And don’t worry — “light” doesn’t mean boring or hungry. It just means being mindful: smaller plates, balanced portions, and ingredients that go easy on your stomach. Once you start, you’ll notice how much better you feel. Here are five ways that lighter dinners can make a big impact on your health and mood:
1. Improved Digestion Big dinners late in the day can be tough on your system, especially when you’re winding down for the night. Since digestion slows in the evening, rich or heavy foods can cause bloating, heartburn, or discomfort when you’re trying to sleep.
2. Better Sleep Quality Ever notice how it’s harder to fall asleep after a big meal? That’s because your body is busy digesting instead of resting. Lighter dinners reduce the risk of reflux and help your body focus on getting deep, restorative sleep.
3. Easier Weight Management Late-night calories are sneaky — your body doesn’t have much time to burn them off before bed. Research shows that eating earlier and keeping dinner light can support your metabolism and help you maintain a healthy weight.
4. More Morning Energy When your stomach is still working overtime overnight, you’re more likely to wake up sluggish and skip breakfast. Eating light in the evening gives your body a chance to reset, so you wake up refreshed, hungry, and ready to take on the day.
5. A Happier Mindset Feeling comfortable after dinner can make a surprising difference in your mood. When you’re not weighed down, it’s easier to relax, reflect, or wind down with your family. Plus, studies show that avoiding overeating can even help reduce stress and anxiety.
So as you head into the holiday season, enjoy every bite — just maybe not every extra bite. By keeping your dinner portions in check, you’ll sleep better, feel lighter, and start your mornings with more energy. Because when it comes to dinner, sometimes less really is more. -30-
| Date Taken: | 11.24.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.24.2025 16:07 |
| Story ID: | 552268 |
| Location: | TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 33 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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