Stress is a feature of modern life, as both men and women suffer from it, although women are more sensitive and emotional. It prompts each infected person to interact with it negatively or positively, which may result in an increase in appetite and, consequently, an increase in weight, while it may cut off the appetite of others and cause several health problems. What type do you belong to?!
Nutritionist Lana Fayed Araisi tells you about the causes that lead to both conditions and the solution for each of them:
Why does stress make some people eat more?
Some people resort directly to eating when stressed; This is to give them a feeling of satisfaction. In fact, the brain secretes chemicals that are neurotransmitters that are associated with this positive feeling. High levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, are secreted, which stimulates the appetite for salt, sugar, and foods saturated with fat. Many people also resort to eating chocolate, french fries, and bread, so that food becomes a panacea.
Why does stress cut off some people’s appetite?
The reason why some people lose their appetite when they are stressed is due to the increase in acids in the stomach, which creates a feeling of fullness in them. In addition, when you are stressed, you develop a problem of imbalance, which signals to your brain that you do not need to eat, even if you are hungry.
Psychological factors also play an essential role, as people who suffer from stress are constantly busy, so that eating is their last concern. We must not forget that when most people are stressed, they feel nauseous and avoid eating afterwards.
*the solution:
The solution lies in establishing balance. Eating too much will lead to obesity, while reducing it will deprive your body of the energy and essential nutrients it needs. The best way to deal with stress is to make healthy decisions and monitor portions. If stress makes you overeat, do not buy anything that might tempt you to overeat. You must avoid foods rich in fat, sugar, and salt, such as ice cream, chocolate, biscuits, and potatoes.
If stress interrupts your appetite, remember that you regularly need small, healthy meals, as well as:
• Eat more nuts, because they contain a high percentage of calories.
•Eat vegetables, such as carrots and broccoli, with low-fat sauce.
•Drink if you crave sugar.
•Eat crackers with low-fat cheese.
•Enjoy 25 grams of bitter chocolate, containing 70% or more cocoa.
