Social interaction has long been an important part of meals – probably since the dawn of mankind. However, in our fast-paced world, many adults often eat alone. Unfortunately, a recent study shows that eating alone can be bad for your heart. But why is that and how can you protect your heart if you often eat alone?
Eating alone can increase THIS painful heart condition, study warns
The study, published in early 2022 in the journal Menopause, sought to find out how the dietary companion (or lack thereof) affects heart health, particularly in women over 65. The study assessed the health and eating habits of 590 women. The researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in Korea in 2016. These study participants were divided into two categories: those who ate two or more meals alone each day and those who ate two or more meals with others. After analyzing the data, the researchers found that participants who mostly ate alone had a whopping 2.58 times greater risk of angina than those who had company during meals. Angina is a painful heart condition that occurs when the heart does not get enough oxygen. This is often the result of underlying coronary artery disease, which can cause heart arteries to narrow and become blocked by plaque buildup. This results in reduced blood flow to the heart. Depending on the type of angina, this may mean that the person is at risk of a heart attack.
Why is eating alone bad for health?
In addition to increasing the risk of angina in women over 65, many studies have found that eating alone increases several health risks, including obesity, high blood pressure and depression. These findings begin. But why is eating alone so bad for your health? Researchers from the menopause study concluded that women who ate alone had less knowledge about nutrition and lower intakes than their counterparts who ate with company. Furthermore, self-feeding can have a negative impact on mental health. Plus, it's easy to choose unhealthy foods when you're busy, sad, or stressed. Those who primarily eat alone may be prone to overeating or consuming unhealthy foods, which can increase their health risks.
How to protect your health
Without a doubt, our food choices affect our heart health and overall well-being—even whether we eat it alone or not. However, while not all of us are able to eat meals with other people, there are steps you can take to protect your heart and health. First, it's important to eat nutrient-dense foods, including lots of colorful fruits and vegetables. These powerful plant foods provide vital nutrition, and some even have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. Healthy fats from organic nuts, avocados and cold-pressed olive oil are also beneficial. Walnuts can even support healthy cholesterol levels. It is also good to avoid highly processed foods, such as deli meats, soft drinks and fast food. Bottom Line: Eating healthy (fresh, unprocessed) foods—as often as possible—and enjoying meals with someone you love are two great heart-healthy habits.
Sources for this article include:
Lifeextension.com
Journals.lww.com
Heart.org
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