How to Fight Back Against Stress Eating
By Sara Butler
You can’t eliminate stress in your life and you certainly can’t eliminate food -- but you can eliminate what happens when you combine the two: stress eating. Many people opt for mindless snacking on comfort foods when they’re feeling under a lot of stress, but that temporary high you give your brain from eating your favorite cookie or chocolate bar isn’t going to have a lasting effect on your stress levels. You must learn to deal with stress in a healthy way. So, instead of reaching for that sleeve of crackers or cookies, here are a few healthy strategies you can use to combat stress in your life.
Phone a Friend
Calling up a friend for help isn’t simply something done on game shows when you find yourself in a pickle -- it’s also a great strategy when you’re feeling stressed. Venting with a friend can help to relieve stress and distract you from the refrigerator in times of crisis. Sometimes, a sympathetic ear is all you need, not a bag of potato chips.
Write It Down
Anxious, stressful thoughts are better let out than held in, which is why a journal is a great way to help get them out! Write your thoughts down in a journal for your eyes only, that way you don’t have to worry about being judged or made fun of because it’s for your eyes only. Just try to balance your rants with some positive things too. You don’t want to focus too much on the negative when dealing with a stressful situation or they may become more stressful!
Go Outside
When you’re feeling stressed, take a walk around your neighborhood. Research has shown that walking can help lower blood pressure, which then helps to lower stress levels. Focus on being in the moment and being aware of the beautiful scenery surrounding you. Chances are, you’ll feel much better after that walk than you would after an entire pan of brownies.
Listen to Music
You can change your mood with a good tune so create different playlists you can pull out in times of trouble and times of happiness. If you’re trying to get rid of stress or you’re feeling angry, something soft and relaxing might do the trick to bring you out of it. If you’re feeling down, inspirational songs may do it for you. Whatever you choose, it’s a great alternative for stress control that doesn’t involve food.
Stress and eating often go together, but they don't need to. You can find healthier ways to cope with stress that will benefit you in the long run.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Edmond, Ok.