4 Ways to Stop Stress Eating

It’s common to respond to stress by distracting yourself with your favorite comfort foods. But now that you’re following a healthy lifestyle, you know that turning to common comfort foods (processed chips, white potatoes, sugary sweets, and so on) may cause swings in your blood-sugar levels that can lead to cravings and weight gain.

Here are some healthier ways to cope:

1. Stick with the program. If you follow the guidelines set forth by your diet, you’ll be less likely to have cravings and, as a result, you’ll be less likely to turn to food when you face stress. Plus, healthy snacks are encouraged on any plan, so you won’t feel deprived.

2. Keep your hands busy. Find something else to do with your hands besides eat. Keep the daily crossword nearby, knock off some chores, or distract yourself by calling friends or family. (But don’t use the kitchen phone!)

3. Be ready for stress-induced snack attacks. It’s worth repeating that healthy snacks are encouraged on any diet, so keep the right foods on hand. Make sure you’ve got a supply of crunchy vegetables like celery sticks, green and red pepper strips, cauliflower buds, and broccoli florets — you can even cut them up and stash them in resealable bags in your veggie drawer. Feel the urge to dip? Try hummus or eggplant dip, or a bit of spreadable low-fat cheese (six grams of fat or less per ounce). Also, stock your cupboards and desk drawers with nonperishable Diet–friendly items like nuts; high-fiber, whole-grain crackers and cereals; dried apricots; and even cans or pouches of water-packed tuna.

4. Work out. Not only is exercise a great way to stay fit and manage your weight, it’s also a fantastic stress reliever. If going to the gym isn’t your thing, clear your mind with a brisk walk around the neighborhood.

Source: SouthBeachDiet.com

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