Smartphone use during meals affects memory

A study published in the journal Nature suggests that using a smartphone while eating may interfere with the brain's ability to remember the meal, potentially leading to overeating.

Brain records meals as experiences

The brain stores information about meals in a specific memory system, including details like the location, time, and environment. This helps regulate eating habits and avoid eating too soon or too frequently.

Disrupted memory leads to overeating

In experiments with rats, blocking the neurons responsible for meal memory caused them to seek food earlier than usual. In humans, distractions during meals may lead to incomplete memory, resulting in repeated snacking and overeating.

Screen time increases food consumption

Watching videos or using a phone while eating can increase the amount of food consumed, regardless of the content. Women may be especially affected, as they might feel full without having truly focused on their meal.

Phone use diverts attention from eating

Smartphones capture attention and reduce focus on the meal itself. This can result in a less precise memory of the meal, even if the stomach is full. According to Scott Kanoski, director of the study, remembering what and when we ate is as important as the food itself.