Many people eat more when they're stressed. Others eat less and lose weight.
But according to Stone Hearth News, people under chronic stress are more likely than others to say they eat fattening foods and feel that their eating is out of control, according to a study presented at a recent meeting of the Obesity Society.
In one of the largest surveys ever to examine the relationship between chronic stress and eating behaviors, researchers at the University of California-San Francisco questioned more than 600 women who were overweight or obese about their eating habits and life stressors.
The women were categorized as having chronic stress if they had ongoing stressful situations such as being unable to pay their rent or mortgage; feeling stuck in a job they don't like; having a spouse or partner who expects too much of them or doesn't understand them; having a child who isn't doing well in school; or acting as a family caregiver for someone in poor health.
The researchers found that people who had greater chronic stress were more likely than the other survey participants to say they ate high-fat foods and felt they lacked control over their eating and hunger.
Here is the USA Today article on the study.
Comments
Great article. Now I guess that I'll have to research what can be done to break the cycle of overeating. So many people experience chronic stress, and chronic overwhelm. Thanks for the coverage. Also, you don't have to be overweight or obese to feel out of control with eating when you are in those situations.
I certainly see the stress eating increase in myself and the craving for chocolate, mostly, increases during those peak periods. have to keep reminding myself to do other things that "feed" my spirit, dancing, listening to music, getting outdoors in the sunshine.
Thank you for the comments, Liz and Mary. I agree with both of you. Mary, I think that there are range of strategies people use - from distracting themselves with a warm bath and music, to calling a friend, that can be helpful in curbing overeating. Each of us can build a list that works for us. Too, I think there is more support out there, from Weight Watchers to sparkpeople.com, that can be helpful.
Annie
If only the tasty foods weren't so tasty. Like everyone, I reach out for comfort foods and drinks when I'm stressed, but I know how far I can push those indulgences.
P.S. Life's up and downs are normal, so don't beat yourself up. Eat healthy the next couple of days, make up for it.
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