Does drinking milk before bed cause weight gain?
Disease description:
My wife is about to go to bed and really wants to drink milk, but she's worried about gaining weight. Doctor, will drinking milk before bedtime cause weight gain?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Drinking an appropriate amount of milk before bedtime generally does not lead to weight gain. However, consuming excessive milk before sleep may potentially cause weight gain.
Milk contains various minerals and vitamins, including protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and others. These components play important roles in maintaining normal physiological functions, enhancing immunity, and promoting bone health. At the same time, milk has relatively low calories. Drinking an appropriate amount before bedtime generally will not cause weight gain, and its nutritional components can help improve sleep quality and promote physical recovery.
If you consume excessive milk before bedtime, or choose varieties with high fat and calorie content, such as whole milk, the caloric intake may exceed the body's needs and be converted into stored fat, leading to weight gain.
It is recommended to drink an appropriate amount of milk before bedtime to ensure caloric intake remains within the body's normal metabolic range. Choosing low-fat milk is also recommended, as low-fat or skim milk contains less fat and fewer calories. In addition, maintaining good sleeping habits and dietary habits can also help prevent weight gain.
