Emotions can be powerful forces that drive eating. They can take the shape of thoughtless, impulsive, binge eating, or numb feelings, or an intentional distraction from conflict, boredom or pain. Emotional eating often results in an unhealthy eating cycle of negative emotions and overeating, or eating unhealthy foods. To control emotional eating, find healthy ways to manage stress, keep a food diary to reveal patterns, get support, avoid boredom, keep your home/work/car free of unhealthy comfort foods, eat six small healthy meals/snacks, enjoy no-added-sugar treats on occasion, and learn from set-backs. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help, if needed, to find the motivations behind your emotional eating and to learn new coping skills.
