Fear of missing out makes us overeat

FoMO syndrome is an anxious feeling that other people are having a more interesting and fulfilling experience at this moment. Initially, this term was used to describe addiction to social media, but new evidence confirms its influence on food culture. For many, food becomes the most accessible source of joy, which helps to distract from worries or boredom.

The problem is that this behavior quickly ceases to be conscious. When a person eats not because of hunger, but for the sake of reward or reassurance, pleasure centers are activated in the brain. Over time, this becomes a habit: whenever you’re stressed or feeling lonely, you’re more likely to crave unhealthy foods. This can eventually lead to food addiction, where you lose control over how much you eat, even though you know it’s not good for your health.

A study involving 227 individuals found that psychological state has a direct impact on eating habits. People with high levels of anxiety and depression are more likely to experience FoMO syndrome and seek solace in food. Anxiety acts as an amplifier, making the connection between seeking pleasure and addiction stronger. The higher the level of internal tension, the more difficult it is for individuals to stop and curb their overeating.

Additionally, researchers have observed that women are more sensitive to food rewards. They tend to respond more strongly to the pleasure derived from food, making them more vulnerable to addiction. Social media further exacerbates this issue, as constant exposure to food-related content and observing others’ lives can lead to feelings of inadequacy that are often sought to be alleviated through overeating.

It is important to note that the data was obtained through surveys where participants self-reported their condition. Additionally, the existing tests for FoMO syndrome are primarily focused on social life rather than specific eating habits. This means that longer-term observations of a larger group of individuals are necessary for definitive conclusions.

Nevertheless, the main takeaway is clear: simply following a diet is not enough to combat weight gain and food addiction. Addressing psychological factors such as fear of social isolation and anxiety is crucial. The ability to cope with stress without relying on food is a key factor in preventing addiction.