Halt that hedonism!

Hedonic eating is “living to eat”, rather than eating to live. And it seems far too many are treating themselves on a daily basis! Hedonic eating involves consuming “hyper-palatable”, energy-dense foods, which appeal to all the senses (sight, taste, smell, texture). These are often carbohydrates, especially sugar, fat (usually saturated) and salt… you could say the Western diet!

The Western diet is known to induce systemic inflammation; particles of which cross the blood-brain barrier triggering inflammation within the central nervous system (CNS).

This stimulates the reward pathways, notably dopamine, opioid and cannabinoid pathways, in an addiction-like manner, producing physiological and possibly even structural changes in the CNS. This in turn stimulates the desire to consume energy-rich foods, despite feeling full and having sufficient energy stores. A rather vicious cycle with an undesirable plump, blubbery result!

The key to a healthy life is eat to live, leaving small treats as a rare special occasion. Self-indulgence in the pursuit of eating pleasure invariably results in unwanted but self-deserved weight gain. Enjoying a small pleasure from time to time is no sin, but eating in the pursuit of pleasure on a daily basis becomes habitual behaviour with undesirable effects.

Self-restraint and balance are truly the keys to not only healthy weight but also a far more satisfying life.