How to Stop Comfort Overeating

Identifying and putting a stop to unhealthy or potentially dangerous habits can be a painful process. To admit these habits is often difficult and requires self-awareness and humility. This includes food-related issues like overeating or anorexia. While overeating is related to food, the root problem is psychological, not dietary. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to help put an end to compulsive overeating.

Things You'll Need

• Nutrition journal

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Use a nutrition journal to track your eating habits, recommends the American Medical Association. Write down everything you eat and when you eat it. This will help you see what triggers you to eat or to feel compelled to eat. An AMA sample journal example is in the References section.

• 2

  Brainstorm other ways to deal with eating triggers. For example, if you find that you eat whenever you get nervous, come up with a few other options to respond to nervous feelings. These can include going for a walk or deep breathing.

• 3

  If you feel absolutely compelled to eat, choose healthful foods. Instead of brownies or ice cream, munch on carrots, celery, apples and other foods that are high in nutrients and fiber and low in simple sugars and fats.

• 4

  Track your progress. Keep a record of your successes to help motivate you. Don't expect to change in a day. Be patient and give yourself space to make mistakes and learn from them.

• 5

  If the problem persists to the point where it begins to threaten your health or ability to function on a daily basis, consult a physician or psychologist. She can offer her specialized training and suggest ideas that may help.