Emotional eating is a common solution for many people during times of stress, depression, anxiety, and several other emotions.  However, it isn’t going to help you deal with your emotions and it isn’t going to help you achieve your weight loss goals.  Food really shouldn’t be your escape from your emotions.  It doesn’t alleviate the emotions or solve any problems, it just becomes an instant and momentary satisfaction that leads to more guilt.  Instead of becoming a victim to your emotions try these emotional eating alternatives.

Exercise

Exercise is a great emotional eating alternative.  Just a little exercise can increase your overall health and your sense of well-being.  It also causes a release of endorphins which are the brain’s feel good neurotransmitters.  This release of endorphins ultimately makes you feel better.

Hobbies

Since a hobby is something that is undertaken for pleasure and relaxation it is great way to distract yourself from your problems or emotions and avoid emotional eating.  In most cases, hobbies give you the opportunity to create new projects and try new things and this can leave you feeling fulfilled.

Write

Writing is one of the simplest forms of expression.  This is an excellent emotional eating alternative because it allows you to express your feelings and work through them but it can also be a great way to take your mind of off your feelings and get creative in other ways.

Support

Spend time with your family or a close friend.  Simply sharing your emotions or taking the time to vent about your day can have a beneficial impact on your mood.  These are people who will be there for you no matter what and are great for listening and sharing in whatever is troubling you.  That support system is great at helping to alleviate the feelings.

Give Yourself a Massage

Intentionally massaging tense areas can ease the tension but it will also release chemicals in your body that will help you feel better.

Drink some Tea

Black tea can reduce your cortisol levels which will reduce your cravings and help to ease your stress.

Chew

Try chewing on a piece of gum or a straw.  Chewing on something before you eat will significantly reduce your appetite.

Trying these emotional eating alternatives should help you skip the emotional eating and stick to your weight loss plan.  To schedule your free consultation please click below or call (212) 759-8118.