Are You a Fast Eater? Here's Why You Might Want to Slow Down

In our fast-paced modern world, where our lifestyles often mirror our eating habits, it turns out that eating quickly is not just about convenience—it's about health too. A new study conducted by researchers from the University of Haifa and the Ichilov Medical Center points out that rapid eating does more than cause temporary bloating or discomfort; it might lead to the development of fatty liver disease, which is one of the most common liver diseases globally.

The study included 315 adults aged 40 to 70, who underwent non-invasive medical examinations to evaluate liver condition, alongside comprehensive questionnaires that provided insights into their eating habits, physical activity, and smoking and drinking habits. The researchers found an alarming connection: participants who reported eating quickly were about 69% more likely to develop fatty liver disease compared to those who ate at a more moderate pace.

Additionally, eating driven by emotional cues, such as during stress or sadness, has been shown to increase the risk of developing other metabolic issues, like insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. These findings highlight that the consequences of eating habits extend beyond just the digestive system.

According to the researchers, the findings point to the importance of behavioral changes in eating habits, not just adjusting the type of food consumed. "We see that it's not just what you eat that affects health but also how you eat," explains Laura Sol Greenspan, a public health Ph.D. candidate and one of the study's authors, to Mako. She adds that maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and regular physical activity reduce the risk of fatty liver disease by about 58%, but poor eating habits can undermine the benefits of these healthy practices.

Fatty liver disease, unrelated to alcohol consumption, affects about 30% of the global population, including in Israel, and is considered a leading cause of chronic liver disease. The disease is characterized by the accumulation of fat in liver cells, which can lead to inflammation, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. The researchers emphasize that there is currently no dedicated medical treatment for the disease, making a healthy lifestyle the central tool in its prevention.

Prof. Shira Zelber-Sagi from the University of Haifa explains that the findings highlight the need for a holistic approach to patient care. According to her, it is essential to examine all aspects of lifestyle, including eating habits, to provide personalized guidance and improve care for at-risk patients. The research team included leading experts in the field from academic and medical institutions, who unanimously agree that increasing public awareness about proper eating is a crucial step in battling chronic liver diseases.