Stress is an integral part of modern life, and its impact on our psycho-emotional state often leads to changes in our eating habits. Research shows that many of us feel the urge to resort to comforting foods during periods of emotional stress. This can lead to poor eating habits, overeating and ultimately poor overall health.
One of the mechanisms that explain the link between stress and our food preferences is the activation of the hormonal system, as well as changes in neurotransmitters in the brain. Under stress, levels of the hormone cortisol, known as the stress hormone, increase, which can lead to increased appetite and a desire to consume high-calorie foods rich in carbohydrates and fats.
However, it should be noted that everyone has individual reactions to stress, and it does not always lead to increased appetite or overeating. Some people may lose their appetite or prefer healthy foods during periods of emotional stress. These differences can be influenced by many factors, including genetics, eating habits and personal coping strategies.
How can you combat emotional overeating during times of stress? One key approach is mindful eating. This means paying attention to your body's hunger and satiety signals and choosing foods that are satisfying and enjoyable rather than just comforting. It's also important to develop alternative coping strategies for dealing with stress, such as exercising, meditating, or talking to a friend. Learning emotional regulation techniques and finding healthy ways to respond to stress will not only help improve your eating behaviour but also your overall quality of life.
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