Kicking the Habit of Overeating


July 4, 2025


Stress, whether at work or at home, can often lead to a reliance on food for comfort. However, using food as a coping mechanism, especially in stressful situations, can be harmful to your health.

Overeating caused by stress, also known as emotional eating, is the act of consuming high-sugar or high-fat "comfort foods" in response to emotions rather than hunger. While it may bring temporary relief, it often leads to guilt, weight gain, and increased stress in the long run.

When we are stressed, our bodies produce cortisol, known as the "stress hormone,” which increases appetite and cravings. Add mental fatigue, lack of sleep, and reduced willpower, and you've got the perfect recipe for overeating. This nutrition month, take essential steps to prevent this behavior for a healthier you. 

  1. Pause and Identify
    Before reaching for a snack, ask yourself: “Am I actually hungry, or simply feeling stressed or bored?” Recognizing emotional triggers is the first step to change.

  2. Keep Healthy Options Nearby
    If you do need to eat, choose the healthy option. Try fruits, nuts, yogurt, or whole grain snacks that satisfy without spiking blood sugar.

  3. Find Non-Food Outlets
    Stress needs a release. Try deep breathing exercises, a quick walk, journaling, or calling a friend. These habits are just as comforting without the extra calories.

  4. Create a Routine
    Lack of structure can increase mindless snacking. Try setting up a daily routine with regular meals, exercise, and sleep to reduce emotional eating.

Overeating, particularly when triggered by stress or emotion, can lead to serious health issues over time, including weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. These issues not only affect your quality of life, but they can also result in excessive medical bills if not addressed properly. This is why health insurance becomes crucial. A good health insurance plan can help cover the costs of medical expenses when you need it, allowing you to get treatment before small issues become major health problems. Investing in your health now, through good habits and reliable coverage, can save you stress and money in the long run. Find the right plan for you at https://plgic.ph/PDHealthInsurancePlans.




Back