We all seem to be constantly rushing. Whether it is for work, family commitments or social engagements, the hours in the day just aren't enough. Within this daily hurrying, eating and meal times often become grabbing the closest meal option and eating on the run.

We often eat so rapidly, we don't even taste our food. Also we sometimes end up overeating because in the rush we are not mindful of what and how much we are eating.

Gobbling food down can cause bloating, heartburn and abdominal discomfort.

When we eat very fast, we don't chew well enough and the food may then take longer to digest, since chewing is the first step in the digestion process. Chewing food into smaller pieces, helps it to mix well with saliva and the digestive enzymes lower down are then able to work better.

People that eat on the run generally end up having more convenience and fast foods, which tend to be less healthy.

So try to slow it down – swap eating on the run for eating at a table. Don't be distracted by anything else while eating, such as watching TV or reading emails or a work document. Taste, enjoy and appreciate the flavours, textures and aromas of your food. Chewing food well and eating slowly in a relaxed atmosphere improves satiety and prevents overeating.

Set aside time for eating every day. Start with your evening meal and then try to make it part of your work day, even if you can only manage 15 peaceful eating minutes.

Worried about overeating? Read this article on cutting kilojoules at breakfast.