The study found that more women (77 per cent) than men (67 per cent) are likely to “speed feed” despite the fact that they are more likely to be aware of the negative effects of eating on-the-go (72 per cent compared with 65 per cent of men). The fact that so many Irish women are juggling family needs, running the home and work is likely to be seen as a crucial factor. Women are also twice as likely to be confessed “snack guzzlers” compared to men (28% of women compared to 14% of men).
The food rush epidemic is most evident in the young Irish adult cohort – 81% of young people are spend less than 20 minutes eating main meal with more than a quarter eating this in less than 10 minutes. Speaking about Rennies ‘Gut Feelings’ research, Allison Keating, Behavioural Psychologist said:
‘Work, anxiety and stress combined with a hectic hurried pace of life are all having a detrimental impact upon people’s stomachs. The recession has taken its toll on everyone – men, women and adolescents, both emotionally and physically. The number of clients presenting at my clinic with stress and anxiety and also citing some form of digestive issue has risen dramatically- approximately 90%. This is especially true among my younger patients, some of whom are suffering hugely from the demands of modern life. While your brain may push you to meet a deadline, your digestive system has its own needs and won’t always go along with this frantic pace, without giving you the physical symptoms that all isn’t as it should be.”
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Almost 77 per cent of Irish people classify themselves as “meal stuffers” underscoring how life in Ireland has become increasingly chaotic, resulting in over-packed schedules and a lack of time and importance that people dedicate to eating.
Eating too much or too quickly, stress and irregular eating patterns can all cause indigestion and heartburn. Recent research carried out by Rennie showed that the majority of adults (86 per cent) have suffered some stomach related ailment in the past 12 months.
Speaking about this research, Jennifer Walsh, Brand Manager for Rennie said:
“Most Irish people are rushing through their meals in a matter of minutes to ‘get on with other things’ such as chores, work, looking after children or commuting which means they aren’t giving themselves the time to chew and digest their food. This common pattern results in an increase of people suffering with digestive issues such as indigestion and heartburn and we know from recent research carried out by Rennie showed that the majority of adults (86 per cent) have suffered some stomach related ailment in the past 12 months. This survey serves to highlight the need to address these issues and educate people on the importance of eating slowly and chewing food properly.”
Behavioural Psychologist Allison Keating offers advice for reducing stress while eating:
1. Eat together- It is important to have a family connection at meal time as it acts as a buffer from the external world and all of its demands.
2. Eat slowly- It takes your brain 20 minutes to register that it has consumed food. By slowing down your food intake you’re allowing your mind to play catch up.
3. Avoid skipping breakfast- Set yourself up right for the day and give your body the energy it requires after a night of rest and repair.
4. Don’t be a desk top diner!- Distractions are unavoidable in the work environment and they won’t allow for you to digest your meal physically or mentally.
5. Make meal time an enjoyable occasion- Slow the pace, come together, sit down, talk, breath and enjoy meal time – it’ll ensure a much happier tummy.
About Rennie Gut Feelings 2013 Report:
The Rennie “Gut Feeling” report is a statistically robust national survey which was carried out by iReach on behalf of Rennie in September 2013. iReach delivered 1,000 completed and unique survey responses from adults of all ages and is nationally representative of the Irish population.
About Rennie:
Rennie® is a fast-acting, effective treatment to help relieve the pain and discomfort of indigestion and heartburn. Eating too much or too quickly, stress and irregular eating patterns can all cause indigestion and heartburn. Symptoms of indigestion include stomach pain whilst a burning chest pain can be an indication of heartburn.