Why Do We Eat More Under Stress?

Author: Mark Velov Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022

The synthesis of stress hormones leads to an increased appetite for foods rich in sugar, salt and fat.

Stress and tension significantly increase our appetite for "wrong" foods. This is a side effect of stress often affecting many, as finding comfort in food is a normal human reaction.

The problem is that the sweeter, saltier or fattier the food , the more appetizing and satisfying it is. And accordingly, the greater the thirst for it.

We may even feel better after consuming these foods, but the effect usually lasts only 1-2 minutes before guilt and discomfort do not occur. This means that a busy daily life and a balanced and healthy diet are quite difficult to combine.

According to various studies in the field, stress is not only a state of mind, but it also "unlocks" changes in the body that can lead to long-term potential harm to health.

In tense situations, signals appear in the brain that are activated in the presence of a threat. This leads to increased synthesis of stress hormones - cortisol and adrenaline. Initially, we may be too busy to think about food, which is part of the body's natural response to stressful situations.

However, the stress continues and after that or its levels remain high. Cortisol remains in the body long after the primary adrenaline rush is over. It encourages us to "stock up" on energy-rich foods.

Survey data show that after a busy morning meeting or contact with an upset customer, employees are more likely to consume additional chocolate dessert at lunch. It is an attempt by the brain to balance the physical and mental needs of the body due to stress.

Why Do We Eat More Under Stress?

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