Takeru Kobayashi, a competitive eater known for winning six Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contests, has announced his retirement due to health concerns. In a documentary, he revealed that overeating for years has left him without an appetite and feeling “broken.” Despite his success in competitive eating, he now hopes for a long and healthy life.
Kobayashi started his career in 2000 and has set world records in various food categories, not just hot dogs. He believes that his competitive eating habits, resembling American eating habits, have damaged his body. He would prepare for competitions by expanding his stomach with food over months, leading to his body being unable to recognize fullness.
Doctors determined that Kobayashi’s chronic overeating has affected his nervous system and brain, causing a lack of appetite and reduced sense of smell. Despite retiring from competitive eating, he plans to create a healthier hot dog with traditional Japanese ingredients. Kobayashi is concerned about his future but also excited about what it may bring.
Overall, Takeru Kobayashi’s decision to retire from competitive eating highlights the toll that extreme overeating can have on the body and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced and healthy diet for long-term well-being.
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