Eating Hygiene as a regulatory system: from the gut-brain axis to biopsychosocial homeostasis

Contemporary nutritional science increasingly recognizes the limitations of reductionist dietary models focused primarily on nutrient composition and energy balance. Emerging evidence suggests that the process and context of eating play a critical role in metabolic regulation, neuroendocrine responses, and psychosocial well-being. In this context, eating behavior should be considered a biopsychosocial process involving complex interactions between physiological, psychological, and environmental factors. The aim of this study is to conceptualize Eating Hygiene as an integrative regulatory system linking metabolic, hormonal, neuropsychological, and psychosocial mechanisms, and to evaluate its potential role in promoting physical health, mental well-being, and prevention of diet-related diseases. Eating Hygiene is proposed as a multidimensional framework encompassing not only food selection but also the manner, pace, context, and awareness of food consumption. Key components include chewing behavior, eating speed, sensory perception, environmental conditions, social context, emotional state, circadian timing, and mindful awareness during meals. Evidence suggests that slow and mindful eating may enhance cephalic phase responses, regulate incretin hormones (e.g., GLP-1), improve gut-brain axis signaling, and support satiety regulation. These mechanisms collectively contribute to metabolic homeostasis, improved glycemic control, and reduced risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and stress-related eating behaviors. Eating Hygiene represents a novel biopsychosocial regulatory system that extends beyond traditional dietary approaches. By integrating behavioral, physiological, and psychosocial dimensions of food consumption, it offers a promising framework for clinical nutrition, psychodietetics, and public health interventions. Promoting Eating Hygiene may support long-term metabolic health, emotional regulation, and sustainable dietary behavior change.