Overeating, i.e, eating too much is a problem that can cause all kinds of short and long term health consequences. Although it may not seem overly negative to overeat occasionally, sustained overeating (eating more than the body needs) has far reaching effects on health. Here are some adverse effects of overeating:
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Table of Contents
Weight Gain and Obesity
The immediate effect of overeating is gaining weight leading to obesity. Excess calories consumed over time are stored as fat in the body, which increases the risk of obesity. Obese people are at high risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and several kinds of cancer.
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Digestive Problems
Eating too much food at a meal overwhelms the digestive system, causing discomfort, bloating and indigestion. The more the stomach expands beyond normal capacity, the more acid the stomach produces to digest food, from which acid reflux and heartburn are more likely. If you need help with digestive problems it is advised to book an appointment with the best gastroenterologist in Lahore.
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Metabolic Disorders
Consistently overeating can become a metabolic disorder (insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes). That can impair the body’s ability to control blood sugar, which leads to high blood sugar and, over time, causes damage to organs and tissues.
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Fatty Liver Disease
Eating too much, and having too much of foods high in fat and sugar, can cause a build up of fat in the liver, known as non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). When fat builds up in your liver, you could have this condition that may include liver inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and in bad cases, liver failure.
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Cardiovascular Problems
By eating too many foods high in unhealthy fats, sugar and salt, cholesterol levels and blood pressure can also increase, leading to heart disease and stroke. Quickly gaining weight from over eating also increases the strain on the heart and arteries causing cardiovascular problems over time.
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Mental and Emotional Impact
Excessive eating also harms mental health. After the food has gone you may feel guilty, shameful or frustrated and for some this becomes a pattern. A cycle of stress and overeating may be feeding anxiety and depression.
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Sleep Disturbances
Eating huge meals, particularly those eaten late at night can disturb the sleep pattern. Eating too much can lead to discomfort and indigestion and then acid reflux and this can make it difficult to fall asleep or to sleep very well to have good effects on overall health and welfare.
Conclusion
When you overeat you put your physical and mental health at risk and may weigh and digestive health issues, or even more serious problems like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes or liver disease. Practicing mindful eating, eating in appropriate portion sizes and obtaining a balance in your diet are all important to keep the overall well being. You can make these changes which can help lower the risk that comes with overeating and help you start living a healthier lifestyle. If you need professional advice you can always refer to a gastroenterologist in Karachi who is experienced in managing overeating and related issues.