Why is overeating dangerous? The harmful effects of overeating on our body

Weight gain due to overeating can lead to various diseases. The most common is fatty liver disease caused by obesity. If fatty liver persists for a long time, it can progress to cirrhosis, which involves scarring throughout the liver. Excessive scarring in the liver impairs blood flow, resulting in complications such as hypertension. When the number of normal functioning liver cells decreases, complications like jaundice can occur, and the risk of liver cancer also significantly increases. Additionally, obesity can lead to various adult diseases, respiratory illnesses, and joint disorders.

Consuming excessive greasy foods can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD refers to inflammation caused by the reflux of stomach contents and stomach acid into the esophagus. When the amount of contents entering the stomach increases, they may not pass into the duodenum properly, causing reflux. This can result in a burning sensation near the chest and a sour taste. Although it is a common condition, it should not be ignored. GERD has a high recurrence rate and, in severe cases, can progress to esophageal cancer.

Overeating increases the risk of colon cancer. When food intake is excessive, our body focuses on secreting stomach acid to digest it. As a result, the digestive absorption rate of the intestines decreases. Ultimately, substances that are not absorbed remain in the intestines and increase. The remaining sugars and fat residues are broken down by intestinal bacteria, and this process can induce colon cancer. Additionally, it can lead to cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction. Overeating causes a sudden increase in blood flow to the stomach. Meanwhile, the amount of blood flowing to the heart decreases. This can result in myocardial ischemia, a condition where the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen. In fact, at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association, a study was presented showing that the risk of myocardial infarction within an hour after overeating is ten times higher than usual.

To prevent overeating, you should pay attention to your usual eating habits. Vegetables help you feel full for a longer period, which aids in reducing your meal size. Therefore, it is better to eat vegetables first when you have a meal, compared to other side dishes. Developing a habit of eating slowly also helps. When you eat food, the satiety center in your brain is stimulated, causing it to secrete a hormone called leptin. Leptin makes you feel full and suppresses your appetite. Since it takes about 20 minutes for leptin to be released, eating slowly and giving yourself enough time can prevent overeating.