Healthy Eating
This has been a much quieter Easter bank holiday weekend than usual, however, many will have made the effort to eat well and celebrate the occasion.
Special occasion can often result in tables full of food resulting in the temptation to overeat. Unfortunately, some people can suffer health issues as a result including bloating, nausea or and more acute pancreatic and liver diseases resulting in a call to a GP. However, these days the situation has improved and more and more people are aware of the importance of a healthy diet.
Dangers associated with overeating.
Overeating can be quite dangerous, not only because of a potential body weight increase, but also the risk of damaging the digestive system. Common symptoms include increased acidity and a chest burning sensation. The combination of too much food and a mixture of foods can cause the digestive processes to slow down, resulting in bloating, abdominal discomfort, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea.
Increased levels of glucose force the pancreatic cells to work faster and as a result develop more insulin. If the food is accompanied or followed by alcohol it can cause inflammation of the pancreas and hospital treatment.
Common symptoms of overeating include drowsiness, headaches, poor sleep quality and more serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Use this time to develop a healthy eating habit
More fresh fruit and vegetables, where possible organic produce and less food on the plate makes a big difference. Practice healthier cooking methods, use less oil or fat.
The Department of Health Food Pyramid is a useful guide when making food choices.
Tips to avoid overeating.
