Overeating: A Silent Health Crisis Among Students

Oluwaferanmi Mary

In an age where food often serves as a coping mechanism for economic and emotional stress, overeating has slowly and quietly become a major public health concern. While eating is essential for survival, many people now consume more food than their bodies require, encouraged by oversized portions, processed snacks, and the easy availability of food at every corner. As a result, unhealthy eating habits have emerged, leading to serious health consequences that go far beyond weight gain—affecting both physical and emotional well-being.

Overeating is the act of consuming more food than the body needs for energy and maintenance. It often happens in response to external cues—such as stress, boredom, or social settings—rather than true hunger. Over time, habitual overeating can disrupt the body’s natural hunger signals and lead to weight gain, digestive problems, and chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It is not just about how much food is eaten; the quality and frequency of meals matter as well.

For many, chronic overeating becomes a habit, a reaction to stress, or even part of an eating disorder. Some people may develop this tendency due to early exposure to unhealthy eating patterns at home. Students, in particular, are vulnerable to this issue. Due to demanding academic schedules, students often leave their residence halls early and return late, relying on quick, fast meals to maintain energy throughout the day. This can lead to consuming more food than necessary.

Academic stress plays a significant role in student overeating. During exams or assignment deadlines, many students turn to high-sugar or high-fat snacks—such as soda, energy drinks, fried foods, and chocolate-filled treats—for comfort or quick energy boosts. The tendency to skip meals due to packed schedules can also lead to overeating later in the day. Additionally, the convenience of fast food and food delivery services has made it easier than ever to access meals with little effort, further encouraging unhealthy habits. Sleep deprivation is another overlooked factor, as it interferes with hunger-regulating hormones, increasing appetite and cravings.

Although this issue is often under-discussed, its impact on student health makes it a topic worth highlighting. Regular overeating affects not just physical health but also mental well-being and academic performance. Weight gain, often a result of overeating, can impact self-confidence and increase the risk of stigmatization in social or academic settings. Heavier meals can cause fatigue and sluggishness, making it difficult to stay focused, attend classes, or complete assignments. Students may feel too tired to engage in physical activity, leading to more sedentary behavior and wasted time.

Prolonged unhealthy eating habits can contribute to the development of chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, and fatty liver disease. Gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and acid reflux are also common and can become painful and dangerous if left unaddressed.

Can overeating be controlled? Absolutely.

You don’t need a rigid diet to manage overeating. It starts with mindfulness. Pay attention to how you eat—eat slowly, savour your meals, and stop when you feel full. Avoid the mindset of needing to finish a large portion just because it is on your plate. Some students believe they will burn off all the calories anyway, but in reality, once the body has absorbed the nutrients it needs, the rest can lead to weight gain and health complications.

Make sure your meals are nutritionally balanced to reduce the urge for excessive snacking. Protein-rich foods can help you feel full for longer, while carbohydrates should be consumed in moderation alongside other vital nutrients. Stay hydrated—sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger. Keep healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or yogurt nearby, and aim for regular, quality sleep to keep your hunger hormones in check.

If stress is a trigger, replace emotional eating with positive alternatives such as walking, light workouts, journaling, or listening to music. Do not hesitate to reach out to friends, counsellors, or therapists when you are feeling low. If overeating becomes a persistent problem, consider seeking help from a nutritionist or mental health professional.

Food should nourish your body and bring enjoyment—not guilt. The goal is not perfection but awareness and balance. By listening to your body and practicing self-compassion, you can build healthier eating habits that support your physical and emotional well-being.