Gastroenterologist told about the dangers of overeating

Systematic consumption of an excessive number of calories inevitably overloads the body. This not only increases body weight, but also puts a strain on internal organs, including the heart, liver, and pancreas, Natia Chekhoeva, a gastroenterologist and endoscopist at Gastro Clinic, told Izvestia on January 29.

Among the consequences of overeating, she noted obesity.

"Chronic excess of calories leads to the accumulation of adipose tissue. With each extra hundred grams, the risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension increases," the expert specified.

In addition, excess fat and carbohydrates in the diet contributes to insulin resistance - a condition in which the tissues of the body cease to adequately respond to insulin. This is a direct path to type 2 diabetes, the doctor noted.

Psycho-emotional problems are also possible.

"People prone to overeating are more likely to experience eating disorders (compulsive overeating, bulimia) and aggravation of anxiety-depressive states," Chekhoeva said.

Overeating can manifest itself in different ways - from frequent exceeding the daily calorie allowance to single episodes of uncontrolled eating. Nevertheless, there are always underlying common mechanisms and factors that make a person vulnerable to excessive food intake, the gastroenterologist added.

"Constant stress, anxiety and depression often become a trigger for overeating. Food in such a situation fulfills the role of a 'quick comforter', but the effect is short-term. In the long term, it leads to the formation of a vicious circle, where negative emotions provoke even greater appetite," the expert explained.

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Among the causes of overeating, she also named a failure in the mechanisms of satiety. According to the doctor, the hormones ghrelin and leptin are responsible for the feeling of hunger and satiety. When their balance is disturbed, the brain ceases to recognize in time that the body has already received enough calories. As a result, a person continues to eat without feeling the limits of satiety.

In addition, the habit of eating too fast, snack on the run or eat anxiety and boredom leads to a gradual increase in the volume of portions and frequency of meals. The body does not have time to signal satiety, confuses hunger with thirst or emotional discomfort, provoking regular bouts of overeating.

"To avoid the development of severe consequences, it is important to recognize dangerous habits in time and take action," Chekhoeva stressed.

She advised to control the diet. Keeping a food diary helps to objectively assess the volume of food, its calorie and nutrient ratio.

"Eat on a schedule. Regular breakfasts, lunches and dinners at the same time build a healthy eating rhythm. This helps to develop a conscious attitude towards food and avoid uncontrolled snacking," the doctor recommended.

In addition, according to the expert, if overeating is associated with underlying emotional problems, it is better to consult a specialist.

You should also engage in moderate physical activity. Regular walks, swimming or other adequate cardio exercises have a double effect - reduce stress levels and contribute to additional calorie burning.

"Overeating is not just a weakness or lack of willpower. It is closely related to the mental state, physiological processes and formed habits. With timely correction of lifestyle, obesity, metabolic disorders and other severe consequences of overeating can be avoided. It is important to remember that health is the result of a comprehensive and thoughtful approach," concluded Chekhoeva.

Earlier, on September 23, 2024, it was reported that the majority of surveyed Russians (62.2%) believe that they adhere to the principles of healthy eating, and 91% of them prepare healthy food at home. At the same time, 35% of respondents claim that they find it difficult to stick to a healthy diet. This follows from the results of a joint study of the loyalty program "X5 Club" and the network of technological fitness clubs Spirit. Fitness.