Overeating Due to Emotions?
Industry experts accept that there is a link between emotions and overeating. But defining the exact relationship between the two phenomena isn’t quite as easy as anyone would like. Overeating patterns and the exact cause and effect of overeating/emotions creates a definite cycle that is increasing the spread of obesity at never before seen rates. Factors have to be considered at an individual level, but they also have to be considered as applicable to family units as well as social groups. This makes coming up with a solid definition even more difficult.
The basic relationship between emotions and overeating is often defined in broad terms by the phrase comfort food. It makes sense…someone experiencing negative or unpleasant emotions reaches for foods that will be pleasing. The emotions inspiring this type of eating vary greatly, but are often fear, anger, depression or anxiety related. Temporary overeating as well as chronic overeating can provide a feeling of relief (temporarily) from emotional pain.
Other positive feelings are often obtained by the individual succumbing to overeating in response to negative emotions. Food preparation, discussion or even just the act of eating are often a distraction from the negative feelings and thoughts. Overeating is often seen as a reward providing the individual with a feeling of gratification. It can also provide feelings of comfort (thus the term “comfort foods”) and a sense of being loved.
Overeaters (those who suspect themselves of the problem or who have been repeatedly accused of the problem by loved ones or medical professionals) should take the first step to stopping their personal cycle. The first step is knowing it’s there and defining it. It seems easy. But it can be difficult. Identify the characteristics of your overeating cycle by keeping an eating diary. It will document what you’re eating. When you’re eating. And why you’re eating. Always note if you were hungry when you were eating, as well.
If you aren’t eating when you’re hungry the big question becomes…why are you eating? Is it because of an individual? Is it because of a place? Is it because of the time? Is it because of a certain situation? Define your eating/overeating cycle and you’ll be able to control it to better your own health. Stopping the cycle before it results in obesity is very important since obesity drastically increases the risks for many common illnesses and diseases.
Once the negative habits have been identified and recognized it is much easier for an individual to gain control of their weight. And the recent availability of naturopathic weight loss methods like homeopathic HCG provide the means for drastic weight loss if the problem has already escalated to an unhealthy point.
Amelia Handley majored in exercise science in college with a minor in Nutrition. Yet she still found herself veering from diet to diet in order to control her weight. With HCG Diet Direct she’s found a program that allows her to combine her desire to control her own body weight with her education and not feel off balance.