THE growing habit of eating heavy meals late at night is becoming a serious health concern among Malaysians, according to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2024: Nutrition, released by the Ministry of Health on Thursday.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad highlighted that 41.8 per cent of adolescents and 33.5 per cent of adults reported consuming heavy suppers at least once a week, a trend that could have significant health implications.
“Reduce heavy suppers before going to bed, not that we can’t have them, but always in moderation,” Dr Dzulkefly told reporters after launching the latest edition of the NHMS.
The report notes that late-night eating is linked to poorer sleep quality, digestive issues, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Conducted between July and September 2024, the NHMS 2024: Nutrition is a nationwide, population-based survey examining dietary patterns and nutritional health across various age groups. A total of 5,147 individuals participated.
Dr Dzulkefly also expressed concern over sugar and salt consumption. The survey found that 63.1 per cent of adolescents and 47 per cent of adults exceed the recommended sugar intake levels, with sugary drinks contributing to nearly half of that intake.
Additionally, the data showed that 75.9 per cent of adults consume more than 2,000 mg of salt daily—the equivalent of more than 1½ teaspoons.
“Everyone is encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle, active living, good diet, and good cooking, because good diets start with good cooking,” Dr Dzulkefly said, urging the public to attend free health and nutrition screenings at the Ministry’s Wellness Hubs. - April 24, 2025
