A review published in Nutrition Reviews looked at what happens after a single indulgent meal. The researchers found that a planned higher-calorie meal can help some people keep following their diet.
By contrast, spontaneous or emotional eating often brings guilt and can lead to more overeating. Physically, one large meal has little long-term effect. Social media posts about huge meals can make extreme eating seem normal. The review found only a few relevant studies and says more research is needed. The researchers suggest thinking of planned flexibility rather than calling foods "cheats."
Difficult words
- review — a report that looks at many studies
- indulgent — enjoying special or rich food sometimes
- spontaneous — happening suddenly without planning or thought
- guilt — a feeling of being bad after action
- overeating — eating more food than your body needs
- flexibility — ability to change plans or choices
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever planned a higher-calorie meal while dieting? How did it affect you?
- How do you feel after eating because of emotion rather than hunger?
- Do you prefer calling a planned treat a "cheat" or thinking of planned flexibility? Why?
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