Jun 27, 2023
It is essential to know the difference between actual hunger and emotional eating. Emotional eating is driven by emotions, such as stress, sadness, or boredom, rather than physical hunger. By recognising emotional eating patterns, you can start to break the cycle.
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Engaging in mindful eating can help you develop a healthier relationship with food. Pay close attention to your body's cues, eat slowly, savour each bite, and be fully present during meals. This practice helps you connect with your body's natural hunger and fullness signals.
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Identify alternative ways to manage stress that don't involve food. Engage in activities that help you relax, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or taking a walk. Doing this can help prevent you from turning to food for comfort.
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Ensure that your environment supports your efforts to stop overeating. Stock your kitchen with nutritious foods, eliminate or reduce the presence of trigger foods, and surround yourself with friends and family who encourage your healthy eating habits.
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Meal planning and preparation can help you make healthier food choices, even when stressed. Plan your meals in advance, include a balance of nutrients, and have healthy snacks on hand.
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Maintaining a food journal can help you understand your eating patterns and the emotions associated with overeating. This can help you make conscious choices to break the cycle of stress-induced overeating.
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Even when stressed, it's essential to practise portion control. Use smaller plates, bowls, and utensils to help manage your portions. Be mindful of serving sizes and focus on eating until you're satisfied rather than aiming for fullness.
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Cultivate self-compassion and develop a positive relationship with yourself. Instead of berating yourself for overeating, practise self-forgiveness and focus on making healthier choices moving forward.
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Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to manage stress and reduce the urge to overeat. Exercise releases endorphins, which improve mood and alleviate stress.
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Lack of sleep can disrupt hunger hormones and increase cravings, making it more challenging to resist overeating when stressed. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night and establish a consistent sleep schedule to support overall well-being.
Credit: Stay Young Bureau
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