A top weight loss expert has shared his go-to evening drink for burning fat while you sleep – and it’s not what you might expect.
Professor Franklin Joseph, who runs Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, recommends a simple glass of plain kefir before bedtime.
“Most people don’t realise the impact their evening choices have on overnight metabolism,” he explained.
“What you drink before bed matters – and kefir ticks a lot of boxes without spiking your blood sugar or messing up your sleep.”
Kefir has a low glycaemic load
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The fermented milk drink stands out from typical bedtime beverages like lemon water or protein shakes, offering unique benefits for those trying to shift stubborn pounds.
What makes kefir special is that it’s packed with natural probiotics, contains light protein and bioactive compounds that work together to support weight loss.
“You want something that supports gut health, keeps blood sugar stable, and helps recovery while you sleep,” Professor Joseph said. “Kefir does all three.”
Unlike sugary yoghurt drinks or protein shakes, plain kefir won’t cause insulin spikes that interfere with fat burning. Its low glycaemic load means your body stays in fat-burning mode throughout the night, according to Professor Joseph.
The probiotics in kefir also promote a healthier gut, which plays a crucial role in metabolism and weight management.
The science backs up Professor Joseph’s recommendation. Research shows fermented foods like kefir can boost insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation – both essential for effective fat loss.
Professor Joseph also highlighted an important connection between gut health and sleep quality. The gut-brain axis – basically how your digestive system talks to your brain – means a healthier gut can lead to better sleep patterns.
“We often see patients reach for what they think is a healthy drink at night – like a banana smoothie or a flavoured yoghurt drink,” Professor Joseph noted.
“But those can be loaded with hidden sugars that raise cortisol and keep your body in storage mode, not burn mode.”
Better sleep also means reduced hunger hormones the following day, making it easier to stick to healthy eating habits.
Professor Joseph advises drinking 100 to 150ml of plain, unsweetened kefir about 30 to 60 minutes before hitting the hay.
Kefir could support fat burn when combined with regular exercise
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“You want your body to be calm, nourished, and ready to repair overnight,” he said. “A small glass of kefir is simple – but powerful.”
He warns against sweetened varieties or pairing kefir with sugary snacks, which would undo its benefits.
“Kefir won’t burn fat on its own, but if you’re already eating well and exercising, it could help tip the balance in your favour,” Professor Joseph added.