At times we eat for the right reasons. When we are hungry is the first example that comes to mind. As simple as it sounds, you may be surprised by how often people eat when they think they are hungry when it is a craving instead.
Since we are naturally inclined to make mistakes, there are also times where we eat for the wrong reasons. An extreme craving is worth noting. More importantly, the most anxious moments are when we eat out of boredom or worse; when we seek comfort in food. We have all been there, so you are not alone. But if you are still guilty of doing this from time to time, it is time to make some changes.
Emotional eating is not healthy. It is dangerous. You begin to lose control the moment you start. Predictably, those who eat for emotional reasons also tend to develop health problems. Type 2 diabetes and obesity are two common consequences of emotional eating since it often leads to weight gain and high blood sugar readings.
If you seek comfort in food, it is time to stop. To be fair, there is a chance you do this unknowingly. Reflect on your eating habits and where your health currently stands. If there is anything in regards to the former hard to admit and anything about your health that is concerning, there is a good chance you are guilty of seeking comfort in food to some extent. To stop this behavior, you need to realize food is not primarily a source of pleasure. While it can be pleasing to eat, especially when you are hungry, you must eat for sustenance to provide your body with what it needs to function. You can of course still eat for pleasure. You don’t have to forego your favorite foods. But you do have to stop unrestrained eating and learn to moderate your portions.
Moreover, many people eat for emotional reasons because food acts as a source of relief. You can change this by doing other things more productive and beneficial to your health.
Are you stressed? Unwind by reading a good novel before bed. Feeling a burden? Exercise it off, and follow-up your workout with a satisfying, but sensible meal. What you must stop is mindless eating, because it raises your blood sugar and expands your waistline.
Do not eat when you are not hungry. A good test for this is to ask yourself if you could eat an apple whenever you think about food. If the answer is no or if you would prefer something else, it is because you are not hungry enough, or are just looking for an emotional reward.
Lastly, it should help you to drink a glass of water each time you think about eating. Chronic thirst can lead you to eat for comfort when you should be hydrating yourself instead.