According to a study conducted by researchers at Aston University’s School of Life and Health Sciences in the UK, you’re more likely to eat the way your social media friends do. Yup, it’s true, we eat with our eyes. So, choose your contacts wisely, right?!

Seriously though, people are increasingly turning to online platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube as their main source of diet information. Social media platforms have become more than just spaces for sharing life moments, they’re shaping our lifestyle choices, including our eating habits. It’s free and easily accessible at the touch of a screen! But is this a good thing?

Many influencers who promote food content do not have a nutritional background. And whilst enthusiastic, they may not fully understand the impact of what they’re promoting and the repercussions that it might have. Sure, there are excellent professionals offering valid advice on social media and if you’re in good health and simply curious, great! But remember, that information is not directed specifically to you and simply following a new food trend recommended by influencers could be dangerous, especially if you’re dealing with a chronic condition.

Gigi Hadid has over 76.8 million Instagram followers and has been criticized for promoting fast-food and content which is sponsored by a fast-food brand. Easy and on-the-go. And that’s just it; the digital buffet has become a mindless on-the-go act.

So, as we navigate through our digital dining experiences and focus mostly on what we should eat, we often miss out on an important aspect i.e. how to eat. Can you remember the last time you stopped, focused on, and truly enjoyed your food?

The ancient act of mindful eating - or conscious eating - is the practice of being fully attentive to our food, our feelings, and to satiety cues. By eating mindfully, you’ll be more aware of food choices that will benefit both mental and physical health. Mindful eating is a powerful tool and is worth considering if conventional diets haven’t worked for you.

We have a few tips on how to get you started:

• Ditch the electronics. Put the laptop and smartphone away and turn off the television. These distractions make us less aware of what and how much we consume.
• Have a seat. Avoid eating on-the-go if possible.
• Start with a small portion and put down your utensils between bites.
• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly. Savor every bite and stop eating when you’re full.
• Bring all your senses to the table. Name the flavors, notice the texture and smell the aroma. Try to identify the ingredients.
• Practice gratitude. Be aware of how lucky you are to fully enjoy a meal, so many people do not have the privilege.

Take your time. Be mindful of what and how you eat.

Bon Appetit!

Source: pharmeasy.in, linkedin.com, uk.sodexo.com, womenshealthmag.com, medicinenet.com, allwellwave.com, healthline.com, mindful.org, health.harvard.edu, florastrongheart.co.za

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.