'Mukbang YouTuber' Dies Suddenly After Binge Eating... The Reason Explained

[Financial News] There has been a warning that overeating can increase the risk of cardiac arrest. In fact, there have been cases where mukbang YouTubers overseas died after binge eating. Experts point out that the risk is especially high for people with chronic diseases. Overeating can put significant strain on the heart, particularly for those with Hypertension, Diabetes mellitus, or Hyperlipidemia, so caution is advised.

Last July, a mukbang YouTuber in the Philippines died of cardiac arrest the day after posting a binge-eating video. A well-known mukbang broadcaster in El Salvador also passed away suddenly at the relatively young age of 37. Although the exact cause of death was not disclosed, it is presumed to have been cardiac arrest.
Ameya Kulkarni, a cardiologist in the United States, stated in an interview with The Washington Post (WP) on the 25th (local time), "For young and healthy individuals, a single episode of overeating is unlikely to trigger cardiac arrest." However, he added, "For those who already have risk factors, overeating can stress the heart and potentially trigger an attack."
The link between overeating and cardiac arrest has been demonstrated in several studies. According to research presented at the American Heart Association (AHA) scientific conference in 2000, the risk of cardiac arrest can increase up to fourfold within two hours after consuming a much larger meal than usual. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of 17 studies in 2005 identified strenuous exercise, overeating, and emotional stress as common triggers reported immediately before cardiac arrest.

Experts explain that overeating puts stress on the heart during digestion.
Steve Kopecky, a cardiologist at Mayo Clinic, explained, "When digesting foods high in fat, calories, and processed carbohydrates, blood flow is redirected to the digestive organs, causing blood vessels to constrict and both heart rate and blood pressure to rise." During this process, cholesterol plaques in the arteries may rupture, leading to blood clots. Fatty foods themselves can also promote blood clotting. Kopecky warned, "When multiple risk factors are present, cardiac arrest can occur within just a few hours."If cardiac arrest is suspected after overeating, immediate medical attention is necessary. Typical symptoms include pain or pressure in the center or left side of the chest lasting several minutes or recurring, pain radiating to the arms, jaw, neck, back, or upper abdomen, unusual shortness of breath, dizziness, cold sweats, severe fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Experts recommend adjusting eating habits to reduce risk, especially if self-control over overeating is difficult.
It is advisable to fill half of your plate with fresh foods such as vegetables or fruits, and the other half with proteins and carbohydrates. Since it takes about 20 minutes to feel full, eat slowly and stop eating as soon as you feel satiated. Alcohol, which can stimulate appetite and weaken self-control, should also be limited to prevent overeating. Taking a light walk after meals can have a positive effect on managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and triglyceride levels.
hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter