We’ve all been there: you’re going about your daily routine, on point with your diet, and feeling great about yourself. Suddenly, something happens that upsets you, be it a fight with your significant other or a difficult colleague at work, and before you know it you’re staring at the bottom of a Ben N Jerry’s tub!
What causes emotional eating?
Human beings are evolutionarily hard-wired to seek out and ingest copious amounts of food; the more calorie-dense, the better. We are wired this way by evolution to ensure we have enough nourishment and fuel to last us until our next meal.
But emotional eating can be a symptom various psychological as well as physiological disorders including depression, chronic stress, or even body image issues. Those who have a genetic predisposition towards these disorders might find it difficult to stick to a diet plan.
Comfort food is a popular term for most people, evoking anything from mac n cheese to grandma’s special pot roast.
This gives credence to the term emotional eating, which simply describes the ingestion of food for the purpose of alleviating negative emotions.
Preventing and Controlling Emotional Eating With Natural Supplements
The good news is there are many supplements available over the counter that can help alleviate this problem.
- Melatonin
Getting adequate sleep is absolutely essential for a well-functioning mind and body. A lack of sleep can often lead to negative feelings and emotions, as well as stress in the early hours of the morning.Melatonin is a natural hormone found in plants, animals, and microorganisms that are produced in the late hours of the day to help train your circadian rhythm.Melatonin supplements are available over the counter at most health shops and have been shown to improve the quality of sleep and relieve the effects of increased cortisol in the mornings.
- 5-HTP
This naturally occurring amino-acid is a precursor to serotonin, which in turn is partly responsible for the production of serotonin as well as melatonin. This supplement has been used to deal with depression and sleep problems.Those who are on a diet which calls for carbohydrate restriction might find it useful to take 50 – 100mg of 5-HTP three times a day. You can find our more about our range of 5-HTP supplements here.
- Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)
This compound is produced naturally in animals and is essential for aerobic metabolism and for enhancing glucose uptake. It can help in situations when you have decided to indulge in some non-healthy food as it acts as a damage control mechanism.Take this prior to indulging and chances are that it will help shuttle more nutrients into your muscles rather than fat cells.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Available in most supermarkets, this product taken prior to a meal can also help with glucose uptake.
- Tea
Chamomile, catnip, and jasmine teas are known for their calming effects. These teas also come packed with antioxidants while also providing additional fluids.Furthermore, the act of getting up and making a cup of tea can serve as a break during difficult conversations or work to help you come back with a fresh perspective.
There are some non-dietary strategies that can also be used to improve emotional eating:
- Creating a Food Diary is one of the best ways to tackle the problem of emotional eating, especially if you are consistent in writing down how you feel before, during, and after your meals as it will help you identify patterns in your eating habits.Being mindful of these patterns and coming up with alternative strategies to help you cope during these times.
- Joining a Support Group can help you stay accountable and have a place to reach out when you need it. Seek out those who are supportive of your goals and can help you stay on track through difficult times.
Further Reading
http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/nutrition/carbohydrate-intake-and-depression-qa.html
http://wholehealthsource.blogspot.in/2012/10/why-do-we-eat-neurobiological.html
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/inside-out/201309/emotional-eating-5-reasons-you-can-t-stop
Leave A Comment