Does eating in front of the TV or phone make you eat more?

Lunch with your phone in hand or dinner in front of a show has become normal. The problem is that, distracted, you eat without noticing how much.

What the research says

A review of studies on attention during meals found that distracted eating slightly increases how much you eat at that meal and increases even more what you eat hours later. When you don't remember the meal well, hunger comes back sooner.

Why it happens

With your attention on the screen, your brain registers less of the taste, the amount and the moment you were full. The meal fades from memory, and the urge to snack shows up earlier.

How to eat without screens

1. One screen-free meal a day is a start. Pick the easiest one.
2. Phone away from the table, face down or in another room.
3. Use a plate, never eat straight from the bag.
4. Look at your plate before the first bite: color, smell, amount.
5. The show comes after, as a calorie-free dessert.

When you can't avoid it

If you have to eat while working, serve your portion first and don't go back for more. That way the screen doesn't decide how much you eat.

This content is for information only and doesn't replace advice from a doctor or dietitian.