Eating in less than 20 minutes would be harmful to you for this reason

In a fast-paced world, many people eat on the run, whether for work, school, or just out of habit. However, Eating food in less than 20 minutes could have negative effects on health, according to nutrition and eating habits experts.

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The process of feeling satisfied doesn't happen immediately. When we start eating, the satiety signals sent from the stomach and intestines to the brain take approximately 20 minutes to arrive. If we finish our meal before that time, we're likely to consume more than we need, which could lead to weight gain in the long run.

Risks of eating too fast

In addition to causing excess calories, chewing and swallowing too quickly can have consequences such as:

• Digestive problems, including indigestion, gas, and reflux.
• Reduced absorption of nutrients, as insufficient chewing makes it difficult for the digestive system to function.
• Increased risk of metabolic syndrome, associated with obesity, hypertension, and alterations in glucose and cholesterol levels.

Benefits of eating slowly

Taking the proper time to eat not only aids digestion but also enhances the experience and enjoyment of food. The benefits include:

• Better appetite control.
• Lower risk of binge eating.
• Greater awareness of what you're eating, which encourages healthier eating.

Tips for eating at a healthy pace

• Chew each bite 20 to 30 times before swallowing.
• Avoid distractions such as the phone or television during meals.
• Take short breaks between bites.
• Drink water during meals to promote satiety.

In short, Spending at least 20 minutes on each meal can make a significant difference in digestive health and weight management, becoming a simple habit with great long-term benefits.

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