This week, I’ve been teaching a unit on Stress Management in my Principles of Management class. And for me, it is a good reminder on how to manage stress better.
We all handle stress differently. Yet, one common response to stress is overeating and weight gain.
Stress is defined as a mental and/or physical condition that results from a perceived threat that cannot be dealt with readily. In other words, we feel stress when we feel overwhelmed. According to a survey from the American Psychological Association, about one-fourth of Americans say their stress level is an 8 or more on a 10-point scale. That is a lot of stress.
On the short term, stress decreases our appetite. But over time, if stress persists our body starts to respond differently. Our appetites increase and changes the types of foods we crave. When we are experiencing either physical or emotional distress our bodies want foods food high in fat, sugar, or both. Once these foods are digested, they have a feedback effect that actually counteracts those stressful feelings. So, see, there is a biological reason why ice cream sounds so good!
Of course, overeating isn’t the only thing that contributes to weight gain when a person is stressed. People who are stressed tend to sleep less, workout less, and drink more alcohol.
So, what can you do when you are feeling stressed and really want that big piece of cake, extra beer, or pizza?
1. Clean out your kitchen and office. You can’t eat those comfort foods if they aren’t around.
2. Exercise – take a walk, lift weights, chop wood, or go to the gym. Anything that gets you moving. Exercise takes you away from the temptation and changes your hormone levels so those cravings are lessened. Plus, it is just plain good for you.
3. Reach out to a “healthy” social group. Having a strong support system helps mitigate stress.
Source: http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/why-stress-causes-people-to-overeat