Binge eating on Eid may increase risk of heart disease and stroke

Islamabad
Eidul Fitr, which marks the end of fasting, carries the risk of overeating which exposes people to the dangers of binge eating i.e., rapid consumption of a lot of food with the associated loss of control over eating. Studies reveal that people find it hard to eat healthy because they do not want to stop eating their favourite foods. On this day, many will fall into the trap of mindless eating, and graze on everything available just because it is there.
The danger is particularly amplified during Eidul Fitr, a festive occasion when a wide array of traditionally rich foods is abundantly available. However, Eid cuisines include many high-fat, high calorie foods which pose a threat to health unless we approach them differently.
“Serious health problems can emerge as a result of excess food intake. Overeating may cause indigestion or abdominal distress, increases the burden on your stomach and may increase your risk of having a heart attack. After a meal, your heart has to work faster and stronger to digest food, and the more you eat, the harder it works,” warned consultant nutritionist at Shifa International Hospital Dr. Rezzan Khan.
Dr. Rezzan said, overeating also increases the risk of high blood pressure, which can lead to stroke. “That extra oil-fried ‘samosa’ is not worth losing the ability to use your body, your power of speech, or your life. If you are pre-diabetic or diabetic, and your blood sugar rises, this might put you into a coma,” she added.
At the least, overeating leads to weight gain and obesity which can destroy a person’s happiness and self-image. Big meals contain large amount of calories; unfortunately, we seriously underestimate the number of calories that larger meals contain.
The nutritionist recommended the need to try and control the size of your servings. “If you take a smaller amount of desserts and foods, you can have more opportunities to eat festive snacks and desserts. You do not have to deprive yourself of the Eid treats. Instead, try to eat smaller portions and less often. You can still enjoy your favourite occasional indulgences, but in moderation,” she maintained.
There is a lot of wisdom in not eating just because the food is available, and eating only when one is hungry. Slowing down the speed of your eating gives your body enough time to pass the message to your brain that you are satisfied.
Dr. Rezzan said, ideally, one should socialize with loved ones and concentrate on meeting and greeting people at Eid, rather than overeating till one falls sick. “However, at the same time, if you are fast eater, do not keep adding to your plate to fill the time when others are still finishing their treats. Either eat slower, or make a conscious decision to end a meal when you have finished your serving, otherwise you can unconsciously overeat without realizing it,” she warned.
By practicing mindful eating this Eid, one can consciously protect oneself from heart disease and obesity. It is time we increased our awareness of what we are eating. These small changes can make a big difference to one’s health and all it takes is a little extra attention.