5 Emotional Triggers That Lead to Eating and How to Handle Them

Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) 

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Stress

Trigger: Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, leading to cravings for salty, sweet, and fried foods.

How to handle: Practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or exercise to manage cortisol levels.

Negative Emotions

Trigger: Sadness, anxiety, and loneliness can lead to emotional eating as a coping mechanism.

How to handle: Develop alternative coping strategies such as journaling, talking to a friend, or engaging in a hobby.

Boredom

Trigger: Eating to fill time or distract from lack of stimulation.

How to handle: Create a list of engaging activities to do when boredom strikes, such as reading, puzzles, or learning a new skill.

Happiness or Comfort

Trigger: Positive emotions can also lead to emotional eating as a form of celebration or reward.

How to handle: Find non-food ways to celebrate or reward yourself, like treating yourself to a relaxing bath or a favourite activity.

Social Pressure

Trigger: Eating in social situations due to peer influence or to fit in.

How to handle: Practice assertiveness in social settings and choose healthier options when dining out with others.

Remember, emotional eating is often a learned behaviour that can be unlearned with practice and patience. If you struggle with persistent emotional eating, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or a registered dietitian.