Solutions for stress eating?

[Lisa D]

I have good eating habits until I'm under stress. Then I feel a *constant* hunger. So are there any tools, books, meditations, ideas, or mouth guards anyone can suggest?

[hlthe2b]

1. The only thing I can suggest is what has worked for me the past year

Three things in no specific order, as I think they are all probably equally important:

1. getting the sugar out of my diet and maintaining a moderately low carb daily intake (net Carb grams 70-80). I also got the processed food out of my diet for what it is worth.

2. Exercise, exercise, exercise (my go to is walking and I do a LOT of it with my pup, rain or shine--now averaging 6.5-9 miles daily and not a single day the past 8 months where I did not get in at least 4.5 miles). I also do pilates several times a week and now almost daily for 25-30 minutes. Yoga would likely deliver similar results, but working your core really helps ease the stomach pangs that make you want to dive head first into your refrigerator or pantry.

3. Getting enough sleep (easier said than done, I know, but sleep deprivation starts a vicious cycle of cravings and more anxiety).


Good luck.. Everyone has to find what works for them/motivates them. All I can say is what worked for me.

[Lisa D]

2. Exercise may be the key

Thank you for the list. I agree with all of them!

Maybe, when I get those stress cravings, I should hop on the treadmill instead. Perhaps raising my endorphins will blunt the cravings--and I'll be getting healthier as an added bonus

[ginnyinWI]

3. Exercise.

When I am not able to exercise every day, I get munchies.

Also, be aware that sugar and refined carbs will affect increase your hunger because of insulin secretion. Keeps you from feeling full.

If you must have a snack, try to make it lower-carb and higher-protein.