In Guanzhong, during meal times, it is common for both adults and children to squat and eat, whether under a tree in the village or in front of or behind their houses. This is known as one of the "Eight Oddities." In fact, this is an unhealthy eating habit. It not only affects the digestive system's ability to process food but also makes the food susceptible to varying degrees of contamination, leading to the saying, "illness enters through the mouth."
When squatting to eat, the abdomen is compressed. This not only prevents the normal peristalsis of the stomach and intestines but also obstructs the free passage of gas within them, causing bloating in the upper abdomen and impairing digestion. If one squats for a prolonged period, the abdomen and lower limbs are compressed, leading to poor blood circulation throughout the body. This can cause soreness, numbness, and pain in the legs. The stomach's motility and tension increase, requiring a significant blood supply. However, squatting restricts blood flow to the stomach, which in turn directly weakens its digestive function. In contrast, eating while sitting on a high stool allows the abdominal muscles to relax and ensures unobstructed blood circulation, enabling the digestive system to function regularly and efficiently, which is highly beneficial for digestion.
Furthermore, when squatting to eat, bowls and plates are placed on the ground. As people walk by or when the wind blows, dust is kicked up and settles on the food. The dirt, bacteria, viruses, and parasite eggs on the dust can then contaminate the meal,极易 causing illness.
Therefore, from a health and hygiene perspective, this unhealthy habit of squatting while eating should be corrected.