Stress eating&mdash;many of us have been there. When life gets hectic or overwhelming, we tend to reach for comfort food. Whether it&rsquo;s salty chips, sugary treats, or carbs like pizza and pasta, stress eating happens when we use food to cope with stress instead of hunger.
But why do we do it? When we're stressed, our bodies release cortisol, a hormone that makes us crave high-fat and high-sugar foods. These &ldquo;comfort foods&rdquo; give us a quick burst of energy and pleasure, which can feel like relief in the moment. However, the fix is temporary, and overeating can lead to feeling worse later, physically and emotionally.
Here are some tips to help avoid stress eating:
1. Recognize the difference - Physical hunger builds gradually and can be satisfied with a meal, while hunger rooting from emotions hits suddenly which makes you violently crave for junk food.
2. Take a break - Sometimes, just pausing for a few moments can help you avoid reaching for that snack. Ask yourself, do you really want to eat, or are you just thirsty?
3. Find alternatives - Go for a walk, practice deep breathing, or drink some water. Develop a hobby and focus on things that can help with growth. Food shouldn't be the only thing in our minds throughout the day.&nbsp;
4. Be mindful - Understanding your triggers can help you make healthier choices when stress hits.
5. Seek for help - It's essential to seek for professional help if you develop unhealthy eating habits and you can't seem to stop it. It might snowball into something serious such as an eating disorder if not helped.&nbsp;
All these tips are definitely easier said than done but the little intentional changes you make everyday can help you in the long run. It's important to prioritize balance and acknowledging that your body takes care of you. In return, you shall take care of it too.&nbsp;