When you’re under stress, you tend to eat a lot. Binge eating is common to stressed and depressed people. Question is, are you really hungry that’s why you eat much or you are just using food as a distraction.
If you are indeed hungry then go eat. No one is stopping you. But before you open your fridge think how much food do you want to eat? If you want a meal then go get one. One good healthy meal is good as long as you see to it that added sugar is lower than 25 grams. It is best to follow a diet plan when you are not stressed because people, who are not under stress as what studies have observed, tend to have more self control.
On the other hand, if you are not hungry just stressed then here are some ways that may help you divert your attention from eating.
• A 15-minute walk on the beach or even on the grass may be good for you. This will help you stimulate your nerve receptors which can cause a shift in attention.
• Get as much sunshine as you can. Sunshine can not only provide you with vitamin D but it can also stimulate the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can help you improve your mood.
• Change negative statements to positive ones. The book entitled “The Secrets” says that the more you think about positive things, the more it is attracted to you. Instead of saying “I hope I will not fail the exam” try to say “I will surely pass that exam”. Stop dwelling on the things that can make you more upset. Think of happy and positive thoughts or make a bucket list and write down all the things that can make you happy.
• Stimulate your other senses except for the sense of taste. Engage in activities that will keep your eyes, ears and hands busy rather than your mouth. You can do handicrafts or origami and other artistic activities.
• If you really want to move your mouth, then chew a gum instead of eating 3 slices of cake. In studies, chewing a gum can help a stressed person relax. The smell mint or cinnamon gums are relaxing too.
• If you want to vent out all your negative feelings but no one is there to listen to you, making a blog might be the answer to your concern. There are thousands of readers who are willing to listen to you and would want to give you pieces of advice.
It is okay to be upset at times but don’t be upset forever. Eating too much will only lower your self esteem and predispose you to many illnesses. Keep the grace under pressure and welcome every challenge with a smile.