The Real Reason Cereal Might Taste Better To You At Night

Cereal is a breakfast staple, especially for kids. It's hard to forget those early mornings waking up for school, grabbing a bowl and some milk, and heading into sugary bliss for a bit before starting your day. Don't deny that it's still one of the tastiest meals — at pretty much any time of day. Plus, it requires no cooking skill, which is a big win for some.

Whether it's Reese's Puffs or Raisin Bran, there is always a cereal for everyone — those looking for a dessert-like option or those looking for a healthier choice. Plus, it's not unusual to crave a late-night snack; we've all been there. And if you find yourself wandering to the kitchen to grab an easy bowl of cereal, you might also wonder why it seems to taste even better at night. Believe it or not, there could be a scientific reason behind the late-night indulgence.

According to a study reported by Science Daily, the body's internal clock, which is also known as the circadian system, causes the body to crave sweeter or saltier foods at night. That could explain why you find yourself reaching for that late-night bowl of cereal.

It could also explain why the cereal tastes so good — you're essentially satisfying your body's desire for sugary food, even if you don't recognize that your body is specifically craving it.

Beyond just the cereal, the milk plays a role, too. Both cereal and milk help create tryptophan, which is an amino acid that contributes to sleepiness, per Thrive. Cereal and milk could be a perfect combination for those looking for some assistance in falling asleep.

Per Science Daily, the journal Obesity does warn that constantly giving in to those sugary cravings could lead to weight gain because the body doesn't use energy at night in the same way it does during the day, which could lead to more fat storage. However, it's perfectly fine to treat yourself to a late-night snack every once in a while.