Changing your eating habits requires you to be totally aware of possible food triggers. Begin by understanding the situations and emotional triggers that can potentially lead to overeating. It's a good idea to be aware of behaviors that may have led to your current weight and health situation, such as emotional triggers, guilt based eating, and stress snacking as shown below..
Every time you eat just pay attention if any of these triggers are activated in you.
Are you compelled to eat as an emotional response to your thoughts and feelings?
If you eat when you're upset, frustrated, angry, lonely, or tired, the answer most likely is Yes. Food feels like the perfect temporary solution - that is, until it is finished, and then guilt sets in because the food choice may not have been healthy. Try to choose other behaviors as an emotional response, such as taking a walk or calling a friend.
Do you eat when you are not hungry because you think you should?
Sometimes the time of day is enough encouragement to eat a meal or a quick snack, despite a lack of actual physical hunger. Instead, learn to listen to your body. If you are not hungry, you shouldn't eat.
Do you feel guilty leaving food on your plate?
Perhaps when you were a child, you were told to finish all of the food on your plate. This sense of guilt should no longer gauge how much food you should eat. It is acceptable to stop eating when you feel full.
Do you make food choices because of peer pressure?
It is far easier to go with the flow when those around you are eating unhealthy foods. It takes a lot of self-control and determination to follow your weight loss plan at social gatherings, especially with friends and family. Stay strong, stay with your plan!
Do you eat out of boredom?
Food can become a time-filler when you are bored. Don't fall into this trap! Try to motivate yourself and choose a fun and interesting activity as an alternative to snacking. If you are otherwise occupied with an activity where food is not involved, it will be easier to wait for our regularly scheduled meal.
