Top functional medicine doctor urges people to discontinue this worst yet extremely common lunchtime habit
With busy lives and hectic work schedules, food might be the last thing on people's minds. For many people, taking time out for lunch is hard, even if they feel hungry. However, according to a functional medicine doctor, a certain common lunch habit can actually be harmful to a person's health. The doctor requested people give up on this habit as soon as possible, as many people either skip lunch or eat it really fast, which can cause health problems, per Parade. To help people with this issue, a functional medicine doctor and two-time best-selling author, Dr. Amy Myers, MD, shared a few tips to help people get the most out of their lunch break.
The proper lunch habits also come with a range of health benefits, per the doctor. "Many people are so busy with work, errands or other family obligations that they either forget to eat altogether or rush through their meals without giving their body the time it needs to properly digest food," the doctor shared, pointing out the "worst" lunch habit a person can have. Many people who have a one-hour lunch break tend to continue working or run errands during that time to make the most of that hour. According to a survey conducted in 2023, at least 48% of people in the group skipped lunch at least once a week. 29% of people blocked time for lunch, while 62% of people used their lunch time to do other things, per Forbes.
"Skipping lunch regularly can lead to blood sugar imbalances, adrenal dysfunction and increased stress on the body. It puts you in a state of prolonged fasting, which can slow metabolism, trigger cravings for unhealthy foods later in the day and even contribute to hormone imbalances," Dr. Meyers pointed out. While skipping lunch is bad, eating while being distracted or eating too quickly can cause quite a few problems, too. "Eating too fast can cause digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion and poor nutrient absorption. When you fail to chew your food properly, your body struggles to break it down, leading to inflammation in the gut, which can eventually cause leaky gut or autoimmune disease."
The doctor suggested that people should take proper time to sit down and eat without any distractions. "Instead of skipping meals or rushing through them, prioritize a mindful, nourishing lunch at a consistent time each day." Also, she suggested that a person should take deep breaths and chew their food properly to allow their body to process each bite. It could help people avoid indigestion and gastrointestinal problems in the long run.
"Taking the time to eat a balanced lunch supports stable blood sugar levels, reduces stress on your adrenal glands and enhances digestion and nutrient absorption," the doctor revealed. "Eating slowly allows your brain and gut to communicate properly, which helps you feel full and satisfied without overeating. Plus, a steady source of nourishment throughout the day prevents energy crashes and supports optimal brain function, metabolism and gut health." She advised people not to ignore their bodies' needs and to enjoy each meal without rushing. Dr. Meyers added, "If you struggle with eating too quickly, try putting your fork down between bites, taking deep breaths, or even setting a timer to slow down."