Why we overeat

In my mind, there are 4 reasons why we tend to overeat. I’ll explain about each of them starting with the most abused. Hunger due to eating the wrong food: To me this is the most popular reason why we overeat. Symptoms include craving high sugar foods, or eating “partner” foods. I’ll explain; If you just had a big meal that is high in simple carbohydrates (pasta) and did not contain fiber, protein, or healthy fat, all of which provide a feeling of satiety, you will experience a drop in blood sugar. Which in turn will prompt you to eat MORE simple carbs to raise your blood sugar. This is how your body has to respond. It’s a vicious cycle. “Partner” foods are the foods that just go together with other foods. You know about them. Say you are having a couple of beers, what goes so well with the beer? How about salty, fatty finger crap like chips, pretzels, even pizza. Oh but you don’t drink beer, you drink wine. So what usually goes with your Pinot Noir??? Fatty high caloric CHEESE! Yes, those snooty wine and cheese parties don’t help get the fat off your butt or get those chiseled abs. There are many more “partner” foods, but you get the idea. Emotional Hunger: Okay, this is complicated and actually may be the number one reason why we overeat but let’s not squabble. Our appetites can go haywire when we are experiencing boredom, fear, anxiety, stress, or loneliness. I don’t have the appropriate answer for these conditions because the answers vary with each individual and reason. But it’s safe to say that you need to divert these emotions into something else. Talking to a friend (Edna?) or going for a walk, reading a book, listening to your favorite music, taking a soothing bath, meditate and think about what would really satisfy you versus cramming “comfort” (ice cream) food down your throat to stuff the emotions down. Hunger due to thirst: Okay this is easy, we often mistake hunger for thirst. Try drinking a glass of water to identify whether you are truly hungry or just thirsty. Nuff said! Hunger due to sleepiness: Although this is hormonally complicated as to why we become hungry when we are not rested, it’s easily repaired with sleep. Daytime fatigue may lead people to overeat or ingest sugary snacks to overcome the fatigue. This is equivalent to putting a band-aid on the true problem. It provides only temporary relief. If you are feeling afternoon sluggishness try going outside for some fresh air. I have found that exercise is the best way to overcome the blahs. Of course getting the proper amount of sleep is imperative! Good Health to all.. Robert J. Caltabiano, IFBB Pro Roberts One on One Fitness Studio 17 Ravine Road Malvern, PA 19355 610.296.8505 www.robertsoneonone.com This is where fit happens