Eating quickly has become a widespread habit, but few are aware of the negative consequences of this practice – and the advantages of eating slowly, which aids weight loss and helps the body and mind stay healthy.
Gorging at every meal can lead to a series of negative consequences that go beyond simply satisfying hunger.
From the pitfalls of gaining weight quickly (or not being able to lose weight) to the impacts on physical and mental health, here are all the aspects to understand better the relationship between speed and nutrition.
The 20-Minute Rule to Fight Hunger Pangs
Research Confirms: Eating Slowly Aids Weight Loss
Eating Slowly Aids Weight Loss, Even Without Dieting
Gorging at the table can lead to consuming a greater amount of food compared to when eating more calmly.
This is because it may take up to 20 minutes for the brain to realize that we are full.
When eating quickly, the body then has less time to send signals of satiety to the brain, which can lead to excessive and unnecessary food consumption.
Confirmation comes from scientific research, which has shown that 60% of those who eat quickly eat too much.
Additionally, eating quickly can cause individuals to be less aware of the food they are consuming, which can pose a particular problem when consuming high-calorie or high-fat and high-sugar foods, as individuals may end up consuming too much without realizing it.
Eating Quickly Increases the Risk of Obesity.
Obesity is one of the major health problems globally.
Numerous studies have revealed a correlation between fast food consumption and an increased risk of obesity, showing that those who ate quickly were about twice as likely to be obese compared to those who ate more slowly.
Eating quickly can indeed interfere with the body’s normal appetite regulation process, leading to a higher calorie intake. Furthermore, the lack of awareness during meals can lead to less healthy food choices and a greater likelihood of overeating.
Additionally, eating quickly can negatively affect metabolism, compromising the body’s ability to burn calories efficiently.
Eating Slowly Reduces the Risk of Some Diseases.
In addition to obesity, eating quickly can cause a series of other health problems.
One of these is the risk of developing digestive disorders such as acid reflux and indigestion. Gorging one bite after another rapidly can overload the digestive system, causing discomfort and irritation, and can also negatively impact the nutrient absorption process, as the food may not be adequately chewed and broken down before ingestion.
Furthermore, some research has indicated that eating quickly is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. As both diseases are some of the most deadly diseases, it is worth trying to eat more slowly…even just a bit.
Those who eat quickly tend to consider their meals less enjoyable compared to those who approach food more mindfully. This may not be a health problem per se, but it is still important because the perception of the quality and pleasure of meals is fundamental for psychological well-being and overall satisfaction related to eating.
In conclusion, try to chew your food more and your health and happiness will improve. Trust us!
This article first appeared on Grazia.it
