Emotional Eating is eating that is triggered by stress and other uncomfortable emotions. Eating has become an unhealthy way for the person to deal with their emotions during stressful events. Boredom, sadness or a major life change can all lead to emotional eating in varying degrees. Some people will only occasionally eat when stressed but some compulsively overeat until it takes over their life.
Many people eat occasionally out of boredom. If you frequently eat when you think there is nothing else to do, sit down with a pen and paper and make a list of 10-15 non-food activities that you enjoy. These can be simple things like reading a book or going for a walk. Put this list on your refrigerator or any place you will see it often. When you feel bored and want to eat, look at the list and pick an activity from it. If you start to feel that you have become socially isolated, call a friend or family member to make an appointment to get out. Just a few simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in how much you eat—and how you feel about yourself. If you are frequently eating to deal with uncomfortable emotions and can’t stop, contact a registered dietitian or mental health counselor for help dealing with these feelings.
To find a Registered Dietitian near you, visit www.eatright.org and click on Find a Nutrition Professional.
