"The Gut-Wrenching Truth: Health Effects of Competitive Eating Revealed"

Competitive eating, such as the hot dog eating contest, can have potential health consequences. The stomach of a competitive eater can become permanently stretched out, impacting gastric emptying and potentially causing long-term issues. A study found that a competitive eater's stomach can expand significantly to accommodate more food. Participants often experience bloating, fatigue, and gastrointestinal distress after eating contests. The high sodium content in hot dogs can lead to kidney problems and increased blood pressure. Excessive fat intake can cause nausea and diarrhea. While the body can regulate back to normal after a contest, there are risks of vomiting, aspiration, and even death. Major League Eating, the organization overseeing professional competitions, emphasizes safety and discourages home training.