H. A. L. T. stress eating

 STRESS BUSTERS

October 19: H.A.L.T. Stress Eating Eating comfort food during times of stress is a normal reaction, but overeating regularly can negatively affect your health and further increase your stress and anxiety levels. The acronym H.A.L.T. is a tool you can use to mindfully check-in with your biological and emotional needs before diving face first into the box of breakroom donuts. The next time you feeling the urge to polish off a back of potato chips ask yourself if you're feeling any of these four things: HUNGRY? Are you truly hungry? If the answer is no, try to identify what you are trying to satisfy by eating. If you are actually hungry, eat a more substantial meal. ANXIOUS/ANGRY? Stress has a big influence on appetite. The best thing to do is to address what is bothering you. What are you trying to "fix" with the food? LONELY? Food can be comforting and release feel-good hormones in your brain that distract from feelings of loneliness. If you are lonely, call or text a friend. Walking a pet or visiting a neighbor from a physical social distance can also help. TIRED? Sleep deprivation changes hormones that control appetite. Getting adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night) supports better appetite control.   Combatting Stress Eating with Mindfulness / Life's Ups and Downs Without Eating Potato Chips