Eating Too Fast May Increase Fatty Liver Disease Risk, Study Finds

In our modern world, where fast-paced living is reflected in our eating habits, eating speed is not only a matter of convenience but also health. A study conducted by researchers from the University of Haifa and Ichilov Medical Center reveals that fast eating doesn't only lead to temporary bloating or discomfort, but may significantly increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease, one of the most common liver conditions worldwide.

The study involved 315 adults aged 40 to 70, who underwent non-invasive medical tests to assess liver health, alongside comprehensive questionnaires detailing their eating habits, physical activity, smoking, and drinking patterns. The researchers discovered that participants who reported eating quickly had a 69% higher risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) compared to those who ate at a moderate pace.

Additionally, emotional eating triggered by stress or sadness, was identified as a risk factor for other metabolic issues, such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. These findings highlight that eating habits affect far more than just digestive comfort.

According to the researchers, these results emphasize the need for behavioral changes in eating patterns, not only adjustments in food choices. “We see that it’s not only what you eat that affects your health but also how you eat,” explains Laura Sol Greenspan, a public health PhD candidate and co-author of the study. She adds that while a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and regular physical activity can reduce the risk of fatty liver disease by about 58%, poor eating habits, such as eating too quickly, can negate these healthy practices.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects approximately 30% of the global population, and is considered the leading cause of chronic liver disease. The condition involves the accumulation of fat in liver cells, which can progress to inflammation, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. The researchers emphasize that there is currently no specific medication for NAFLD, making a healthy lifestyle the primary tool for prevention.

Professor Shira Zelber-Sagi from the University of Haifa explains that these findings underscore the need for a holistic approach to patient care. She stresses that all aspects of lifestyle, including eating behaviors, must be considered to provide personalized guidance and improve outcomes for at-risk individuals. The research team, composed of top experts from leading academic and medical institutions, unanimously agrees that raising public awareness about mindful eating is a critical step in combating chronic liver diseases.