Why do we choose "bad" foods when we are stressed?

I hear that question all the time. Do you run to the refrigerator or pantry when you are feeling emotionally stressed? Do you pour yourself a glass of wine or a mixed drink to relax? Do you crave that cup of coffee for pep? Or maybe you need a bagel, pizza or a bite of candy. Do you drive through the fast food lane if you feel starved and just can't wait to eat?

Take some time to identify your emotional eating triggers. Begin to anticipate what scenarios make you want to eat. Think about what emotions you feel before you eat something that you may regret later. Once you know what may set you off, you will be able to change the outcome.

Take some time to have better choices of comfort food available to you. Try always having food choices ready to munch on. For example, keep cut up veggies in your fridge (get them ready on Sunday) with hummus, salsa or a honey mustard dip. Have some rolled up turkey or roast beef. Keep a good organic cheddar cheese (white) ready to have with veggies or fruit. Keep grapes frozen for a quick bite. Have guacamole with a few corn chips or sliced veggies. Keep almond butter/peanut butter ready to make celery boats. Keep pineapple, cantaloupe or watermelon cut and ready. Try having strawberries dipped in chocolate. Put tuna fish on some Mary's crackers or maybe have a sushi with brown rice. If you eat nutrient dense foods you will loose your cravings and feel satisfied.

Tip... Keep a food journal. Put what you ate and how you were feeling before you ate. Go back to your log 1 hour after eating and put down if you felt full or still hungry, energetic or lethargic, content or still harried feeing.

Most important!!!! Be a CONSCIOUS EATER and know what you are putting in your mouth at all times. You can do a lot to alleviate feelings of stress, just by EATING REAL, NUTRIENT DENSE FOOD. Your body will thank you forever....