Why you should avoid raw salads after 4 PM: Expert advice

Salads made from raw vegetables inherently seem very healthy. After all, they are rich in fibre and many vitamins and minerals necessary for the proper functioning of the body. However, it turns out that it is better not to eat them for dinner.

It might seem that salads are so healthy and nutritious that they can be eaten almost at any time of the day. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Why do scientists advise against consuming them after 4 PM? The answer is very simple.

When we want to snack on something light and nutritious, most of us reach for salads. After all, we are encouraged to eat vegetables from childhood. However, not everyone knows that vegetables served raw should not be eaten in the evening. This is related to the digestive processes occurring in our body at that time.

"Raw foods, like salads, contain a lot of fibre, which is beneficial during the day and supports a healthy microbiome. However, in the evening, this fibre can be harder to digest and may strain the digestive system. TThis can lead to bloating and discomfort, which could negatively affect your sleep quality," explained Dr. Maximilian Schubert in a conversation with "Vogue".

The expert also noted that such meals should not be eaten after about 4 PM. What’s more, it does not matter what time we go to bed, as it is much harder in the afternoon to digest various foods.

So, when is the best time to eat salads? We have quite a few options in this regard. They work well, for example, for breakfast. Not only do they provide the body with many vitamins and minerals, but they are also not too caloric. This way, we stay full while avoiding the feeling of heaviness during the day. It is also worth adding that one can prevent snacking between meals this way.

Not everyone knows that raw foods prepared from vegetables can improve digestion and provide valuable antioxidants that also support the immune system.

Salads are light yet rich in protein, fibre, and many healthy plant fats. That's why it's worth reaching for them at lunchtime as well. Consuming them at this time of day can help maintain an appropriate blood sugar level.