Emotional Eating & How to Stop It

We've all been there. A bad day at work ends with a pint of ice cream. This isn't about hunger; it's about numbness. Food is a drug, and we use it to medicate feelings.

The Broccoli Test

Not sure if you are hungry or just emotional? Ask yourself: "Would I eat a plate of raw broccoli/steamed fish right now?"

• Yes: You are physically hungry. Go eat a healthy meal.
• No (I want cookies): You are emotionally hungry. DO NOT EAT.

Identify the Trigger

Keep a journal. When you want to binge, write down how you feel. Are you:

• Bored?
• Lonely?
• Stressed?
• Procrastinating?

Find a Replacement

Once you know the feeling, find a non-food fix.

• Stress: Go for a walk or take a hot bath.
• Boredom: Clean a drawer, call a friend, play a game.
• Loneliness: Join a forum or call family.