Eating in bed may seem like a harmless indulgence, but one sleep expert has issued a stark warning against this habit, citing three key reasons why it should be avoided.
Research reveals that one in seven people in the UK enjoy their takeaways in bed. However, sleep experts at MattressNextDay have now warned that this common practice could invite a host of unwelcome guests and compromise your health in more ways than one.
One unpleasant consequence of eating in bed could be the attraction of bugs to your room. The experts said: “We know it can be tempting to cuddle up in bed and watch Netflix’s latest offerings with your local takeaway’s finest pizza.
“However, pizza boxes, leftover takeaway chicken, and the like can attract flies, ants, and even cockroaches. It’s not just about the annoyance of crumbs, it’s a potential health hazard.
“Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a harmful bacteria often found on cockroaches and their droppings, can even end up on your pyjamas or clothing. Imagine transferring this onto your bed!”
This bacteria can cause infection, and infections can be difficult to treat due to Pseudomonas Aeruginosa’s natural resistance to antibiotics. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep your sleeping area free from food debris, reports the Mirror.
If you must eat in bed, Dr Deborah Lee advises: “Whilst it’s recommended that you change your bedding once a week, if you are eating in bed, that will need to increase to twice a week, to avoid those pesky critters.”
And it’s not just bugs you may need to worry about, eating in bed also has a negative impact on your sleep quality and digestive system.
Eating while lying down can cause discomfort, bloating, or even acid reflux by blocking the natural flow of your digestion. To decrease the chances of acid reflux, the experts suggest eating at least three hours before going to bed.
A third issue that can arise when eating in your bed is a disruption of your body’s natural cues for sleep. Your brain needs to recognise the bedroom as a space for rest, not for eating, or it can take longer to fall asleep.
By keeping your bedroom a dedicated space for sleep, you create a stronger, more consistent signal that it’s time for rest, helping your body wind down more effectively.
