Warning for fast eaters: Five problems it may cause in the body

Eating a meal in a hurry involves more than rushing through the time spent at the table. It can make the digestive system work harder and delay the moment when the brain recognizes that the stomach is full.

People who eat quickly may swallow food without chewing it enough. They can also take in more air, which may lead to bloating, gas and indigestion. Slowing down and chewing each bite thoroughly may make digestion easier.

The delayed fullness signal can also cause people to eat more before they realize they have had enough. Over time, that may increase calorie intake. The article also points to research linking fast eating with higher energy consumption and weight gain, particularly for people who struggle with portion control.

A meal eaten very quickly and in large amounts may trigger heartburn or reflux symptoms in some people. Fast consumption, especially of meals high in carbohydrates, may also contribute to a quicker rise in blood sugar. The article says people monitoring their blood sugar may benefit from eating without rushing.

Small changes can help build a slower eating habit. These include putting down the fork briefly between bites, chewing food more, keeping phones and televisions away from the table, and finishing the meal without haste.