Stress eating in times of uncertainty
We are most definitely in times of uncertainty, where fear can reign and derail our best intentions. As worry and anxiety create an uncomfortable, negative feeling in the body, it is perfectly understandable that we would attempt to do something to relieve the discomfort.
"Stress eating" is a conscious or unconscious effort to suppress or ease negative emotions. Eating patterns can become extreme, from overeating to severe calorie restriction. Sound familiar, anyone? Know that this is a very human response, and that when you decide that you value yourselfenough to do something about stress eating, it becomes less and less out of your control.
First, there are clues you can look for to help you tell the difference between physical and emotional hunger.
Emotional hunger comes on suddenly. Physical hunger usually grows over time, while a stress response will pop a craving into your head out of nowhere.
Emotional hunger craves specific comfort foods. When you're physically hungry, almost anything sounds good-including whole foods like vegetables. Emotional hunger craves processed foods that provide an instant rush (soothing).
Emotional hunger often leads to mindless eating. You may be elbow-deep into the jellybean jar before you realize that you are stress eating.
Emotional hunger isn't satisfied once you're full. You literally can't eat just one! Your belly may become full, but you keep wanting more and more, often eating until you're uncomfortably stuffed.
Emotional hunger isn't located in the stomach. Stress hunger doesn't give you a heads-up with a growling stomach. What you feel is a craving that you can't get out of your head. You become focused on specific textures, tastes, and smells
Once you've identified the craving for stress relief, you can actually do something about it! For example, if you are scared about getting a virus, taking steps to strengthen the body may lessen fear, getting to the actual root of the issue. Try adding in these suggestions to your quarantine routine:
Vitamin C: in the form of citrus fruits, or in supplement form, such as Sufficient-C or Vimergy
Garlic: well-known for its antiviral properties, raw garlic rich in the phytochemical allicin, a sulfur compound that prevents disease. Crush raw cloves into your salad dressings, or try my Healthiest Pesto Ever for a real quarantine treat :)
Thyme: another incredible antiviral food that knocks down the viral load throughout the body, helping to relieve a multitude of symptoms. Fill a pitcher with room temperature water and add fresh thyme sprigs. Allow to soak overnight. In the morning, remove thyme sprigs and add fresh lemon juice and raw honey, and enjoy throughout the day.
Fresh vegetable juice: if you have a juicer, you have access to the vital nutrients within your produce. Within 20 minutes, those nutrients reach the cells, strengthening the body from the cellular level, and reducing inflammation throughout the system. For more on juicing, click here.
This is truly the tip of the iceberg on this topic - for more strategies and motivation, check out my audio class, "Stress Eating During Times of Uncertainty" at feedingyourlife.com/classes.
In love, health and happiness,
Jennifer