When Life Gets Difficult
The pandemic has created an elevated sense of anxiety for many people.
Because of this, professionals are seeing a wide variety of changes: an increase in eating disorders, an increase in over-exercising, increased sweetened beverage and added sugar consumption, weight gain, and weight loss. Compelling evidence shows that dietary habits are negatively affected by conditions of stress, distress, and emotional disturbance. Furthermore, emotions like fear and sadness are associated with less desire or motivation to eat and with lessened enjoyment during eating.
What can we do to remain strong both physically and mentally during these unknown times?
Remember that eating during a pandemic is normal. Restricting foods is more likely to result in overeating and emotional eating.
Listen to your body. Honor your hunger and fullness. Eat when you’re hungry, stop when you’re full.
Focus on what you can add to your diet rather than take away (fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, etc)
Rest! Science shows that we make poor food choices when we are tired.
