by Jane McIntosh, MA, CSN
Chronic stress
consumes today’s lifestyles and can affect your eating habits and weight.
When
stress creeps in forcing food as relief, we typically reach for high fat,
sugary foods which can lead to consuming more calories or more fat than our
recommended diet allows.
When you
experience stress, your brain signals your body to produce cortisol, the stress
hormone which eventually begins to compromise digestion. Our physical and
emotional well-being are affected by stress and 75% of the time over eating is
linked to this emotion.
Stress is
inevitable, but here are a few way to manage stress instead of reaching for
your favorite sweet.
Take it out on a piece of paper. Journal frustrating thoughts, feelings
and experiences that create stress. When you reach for food to curb stress and
find yourself overeating, track the emotional triggers so it can be prevented
next time.
Plan ahead. Write down three alternate activities
instead of reaching for chips in a stressful moment. Try taking a long shower
or bath, going for a walk or drinking water or tea.
Stock up on healthy foods. When you simply need food to manage your
stress, choose healthy options by stocking up on fruits, vegetables, nuts and
low fat dairy.
Sources: Emotional Eating and Weight Loss–WebMD
Note: The information presented here is not a
substitute for medical advice. Consult a physician before starting any
exercise. We suggest that you discontinue exercise immediately if you feel
you’re exercising beyond your current abilities.
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