Did you know that research conducted by WHO revealed that 1 in 8 people are living with obesity? Yes, you’re reading it right! But then the question comes- what causes obesity? Well, isn’t the answer quite simple- overeating? After all, aren’t we all habitual of binge eating a lot? Think of large gatherings like wedding functions and parties where we often end up eating a lot. But is that really good for your health? Let’s find out here in this blog. 

What Does Overeating Mean? 

Here’s a simple definition of what is overeating. 

In layman’s terms, overeating is more than just eating. It involves eating an excessive amount of food. Usually, this type of eating surpasses your body’s energy needs. And these additional calories often lead to weight gain. Moreover, it can contribute to other health complications as well. 

Let’s move ahead and find out what causes overeating. 

Causes of Overeating

Here are some major overeating causes. 

  • People often eat extra when facing emotional issues like stress, boredom and even sadness. 
  • Eating habits can be imparted by social situations. For example, we often eat a lot in large gatherings. 
  • You might also feel encouraged to eat extra when your surroundings are filled with tempting food choices. 
  • Eating too quickly can lead to eating more food. 
  • Some of you might not know but hormonal imbalances, genetics, or medications can affect our appetite.
  • Not getting enough nutrients or skipping meals can lead to increased cravings. 
  • Lastly, lack of sleep can impact hunger hormones, leading to increased appetite. 

Symptoms of Overeating

Overeating symptoms can manifest itself in various ways, both physically and emotionally.

Here are some major physical discomforts you may experience. 

  • Bloating
  • Indigestion
  • Fatigue
  • Weight Gain
  • Digestive Issues

Emotionally, overeating can trigger:

  • Guilt and Shame
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

Harmful Effects of Overeating

Overeating can harm our bodies in many ways. 

  • First, it can lead to obesity. This can cause health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and joint pain. 
  • Overeating also makes our stomachs feel uncomfortable. This might cause issues like bloating and indigestion. 
  • We might feel tired after eating too much as well. 
  • What’s more? Well, it can mess with our emotions.

How To Stop Overeating

Worried about how to stop binge eating? Basically, to stop overeating, you have to keep in mind a few things. So, there’s no overeating treatment available. 

Here are some tips. 

  • The first thing you should do is to make a meal plan for regular days. This helps in avoiding situations where you get over hungry. You can keep meals in small portions, that also four to five times in a day. 
  • Avoid eating when you want to distract yourself. It is because we usually eat a lot while using mobiles and watching televisions. Also, even when you eat, make sure to chew your food properly so it can get digested properly. 
  • To neglect overeating, you can also try incorporating filling foods in your diet. For example, foods high in protein or fiber helps you feel fuller than other food items. 
  • Then, try to reduce stress as well. It is because too much stress and anxiety can lead you to eat extra food. 4
Read More: How Healthy Foods Support Brain Health?

Final Words

Overall, overeating is really hazardous for your health. Not only one, but it can affect your health in multiple ways. You may experience both physical and mental distress thanks to overeating. That is why, the best you can do is to learn how to avoid it to maintain your well being.