Look, we’ve all been there. You know what I’m talking about. That moment when you just can’t resist one…or two…or three more cookies, even though you’re already stuffed. And then afterward, you feel sluggish, your energy levels are zapped, and all you want to do is take a nap. But why does this happen?
What are the causes of overeating?
Various factors can cause overeating, but psychological reasons are the most common. When stressed, people often turn to food as a coping mechanism. The act of eating may also be a way to deal with negative emotions such as sadness, anger, or shame. They may use food as a way to comfort themselves. Sometimes, people eat out of boredom, addiction, or genetic predisposition to obesity.
What are the symptoms of overeating?
Overeating is usually associated with morbid obesity. However, overeating is not just a problem for people who are overweight or obese. An overeating disorder can have harmful health effects on anyone.
People suffering from overeating may consume food when they are not hungry, eat past the point of fullness, or eat to the point of discomfort. It can cause fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, heartburn, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. Some people feel guilty about overeating or depression. The consequences of overeating include weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other diseases.
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How does overeating cause tiredness?
Overeating can cause tiredness in different ways.
When you eat more than your body needs, it has to work harder to digest the food. This consumes energy that would otherwise be used to stay awake and active. In addition, if you eat foods high in sugar or fat, your body releases insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body store energy from food. Frequently releasing insulin can tire the body from having to work so hard.
Overeating can also lead to weight gain, which puts stress on your body and can make you feel exhausted. It is no secret that people suffering from obesity find it much harder to move since the body has to handle the extra pounds.
How can we prevent overeating?
Try to eat slowly and mindfully, savoring every bite. Pay attention to the flavors and textures of your food as you chew. Concentrate on your food! Don’t watch Tv, use your phone or read.
There is a common misconception that people should only eat a few meals throughout the day and that they should save their calories for those meals. The opposite is true. Maintaining your metabolism and getting the nutrients you need requires regular meals and snacks throughout the day. That is why we should have 4-5 meals per day. You go into starvation mode if you wait too long between meals. You don’t want this.
Avoid eating a lot at once. In this situation, your body has difficulty digesting all of the food, causing gas and bloating. Multiple small meals are better than one or two big ones. It will aid digestion and keep your metabolism going.
Consume plenty of healthy foods, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are filling and satisfying. Sugary drinks, processed meat, and unhealthy fats should also be limited.
Last but not least, you should exercise regularly. It helps control weight and lowers the risk of obesity and heart disease. Furthermore, exercising relieves stress, which is a major cause of overeating.
To sum up
As a result, an excessive amount of food taken in by the body can lead to fatigue as it absorbs a lot of its energy. This is especially true if overeating is done regularly. Be mindful of how much you eat, and ensure that your meals are nutritious and balanced.