Nowadays, it’s common for young people to scroll through reels or watch videos while eating, especially when dining alone. While it may seem harmless, research shows that this habit can have serious health
consequences, including the buildup of belly fat and other related issues.
Why Belly Fat Increases
According to a report by Healthline, a Beijing University study indicates that using your phone or watching TV while eating negatively affects the body. When attention is focused on screens rather than food, the brain receives a ‘feel-good’ signal instead of a ‘food-satisfaction’ signal.
This suppresses the release of the hormone that signals fullness, meaning you feel unsatisfied and continue eating.
Additionally, being distracted reduces awareness of the smell and taste of food, eventually diminishing enjoyment. This can increase cravings for processed or unhealthy foods, which further slows metabolism. Watching reels often encourages consumption of spicy or unhealthy foods, significantly increasing the risk of obesity.
Increased Risk Of Chronic Diseases
Beijing University researchers also found that excessive screen time during meals raises the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome. People tend to eat faster when distracted, and rapid eating is linked to type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney issues.
Screen time not only distracts during meals but also encourages a sedentary lifestyle, which is a major contributor to many health problems.
Impact On Digestion
The study highlights the connection between the digestive system and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. Digestion actually begins before food reaches the stomach: simply seeing or smelling food triggers the cephalic phase of digestion, prompting the brain to signal the release of saliva, digestive hormones, and gastric juices.
When attention is diverted to screens, these signals are slowed, impairing digestion. This disruption can prevent the body from absorbing all the nutrients from food and may contribute to digestive disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
