Stress has a great impact on nutrition. One of the hormones secreted in stressful situations is cortisol. When it comes to a stressful situation, the cortisol hormone causes fat cells to release fuel to help with the fight or flight response.
Thus, in cases where both reactions cannot be demonstrated, the person has to sit with the feeling of anxiety. However, due to the fuel released by the fat cells, a feeling of scratching is experienced and the person feels a strong desire to eat. Since constant stress increases cortisol levels, there is a need to constantly get the necessary fuel. This fuel is fat and carbohydrates. For this reason, the desired meals are usually chips or fried foods. Studies show that when under stress, foods with high sugar content are sometimes preferred. However, the two common aspects of preferred foods are that they are high in calories and low in nutritional value. They also lack some of the protective chemicals (fighting cancer and other diseases) found in plant foods.
Another aspect of foods eaten as a result of stress is that the fat accumulated in the abdominal region, not in any part of the body, such as the hips or legs.
There are various ways to deal with the harms of stress-related eating. First, learn to relax. Spend 5 to 20 minutes a day sitting comfortably, breathing deeply, and just focusing on your breathing. Remind yourself to constantly think positively. Get negative thoughts out of your mind as much as possible. Exercise regularly. Exercise not only balances your blood sugar but also reduces your stress. Try to think positive thoughts while exercising. See this not just as a sport, but as time for yourself. If you must eat when you're stressed, at least try to make sure it consists of healthy foods. Try to prepare snacks for yourself in advance, because you are likely to eat junk food thoughtlessly during times of stress.
For example;
- Fruit,
- Fat-free yoghurt,
- Cucumber
- Tomato
- Dried apricots
- There may be simple solutions that can easily carry a handful of unsalted roasted chickpeas and stop your hunger for a while.
And most importantly, don't give up! If the methods you try do not work and you find yourself continuing your old unhealthy eating habits, do not feel guilty and be hard on yourself. Try different methods or consult a nutritionist.
Remember that you and your health are worth trying whatever you need!
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