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Emotional hunger and physical hunger How to cope with emotional food
Table of Contents
1. What is emotional food?
Emotional eating is defined as a way of coping with difficult emotions through food. However, it turns out that it can also be a response to positive moods such as joy or excitement (T. J. Devonport, W. Nicholls, C. Fullerton 2017). Unfortunately, research clearly indicates that this way of eating is associated with a higher risk of developing obesity, eating disorders and depression.2. The difference between emotional hunger and physical hunger
Physical hunger develops gradually, appears a few hours after the previous meal, and can be satisfied by any food. After a meal is over, there is a feeling of satiety and a lack of desire to continue eating. Emotional hunger, in turn, appears suddenly, is very intense, affects a particular product or taste, and is not dependent on the time of the last meal.3. Whether emotional eating is an eating disorder
Emotional food and emotional hunger are normal and occur from time to time in every human being. It is not always a way of relieving difficult emotions. It occurs, for example, as a memento of a happy childhood or during family celebrations. But of course, it can sometimes be a sign of eating disorders or eating disorder, especially if accompanied by other behaviors such as food-thinking obsessions, feelings of hunger, frequent restrictions on food and restrictive diets, good and bad food sharing, or lack of flexibility in eating matters.4. Outside food
In addition to eating emotionally, an important psychological aspect is the so-called "external" or "out-of-the-box" food. It consists of eating food in response to its availability, regardless of hunger level. People who have this eating style have trouble finishing a meal, often overeat, and also eat automatically and thoughtlessly. In addition, they are very prone to widespread advertising.5. Which groups are most at risk?
Although overreaction to emotional hunger can occur in anyone, there are certain characteristics that are particularly prone to it. The first and largest group are people with a disturbed self-image and low self-esteem. Constantly focusing on the body and constantly trying to look perfect cause great frustration. When there are no other ways to cope with it, these people often seek food that helps them forget about their emotions for a moment and also brings relief.6. How to deal with emotional food
The emotional hunger that occurs too often becomes a nuisance and makes it difficult to maintain a proper body weight. For example, a lower calorie intake can also cause self-dissatisfaction and a sense of guilt. For this reason, it is very difficult to know how to prevent it, and it is also difficult to learn how to cope with it if it occurs. First of all, you need to take care of the basics, that is, the proper nutrition of the body. If you plan to reduce calories, it can also lead to a lack of self-sufficiency and a constant concentration on food.7. Summary
Most people experience emotional hunger, and if it occurs from time to time, it's not a problem, but it can be annoying and is often associated with mood and guilt. To eliminate it, you need to take care of proper nutrition, rest, attention, and other ways to deal with difficult emotions.
