HOW TO CONTROL STRESS-INDUCED WEIGHT GAIN

When you're under stress, you may find it harder to keep up healthy-eating habits. Also, during particularly stressful times, you may eat in an attempt to fulfill emotional needs, which is sometimes called stress eating.To combat weight problems during stress and reduce the risk of obesity, you need to get a handle on your stress. Try these stress management techniques to combat stress-related weight gain:

• Recognize the warning signs of stress, such as anxiety, irritability and muscle tension.
• Before eating, ask yourself why you're eating — are you truly hungry or do you feel stressed or anxious?
• If you're tempted to eat when you're not hungry, find a distraction.
• Don't skip meals, especially breakfast.
• Identify comfort foods and keep them out of your house or office.
• Keep a record of your behavior and eating habits so that you can look for patterns and connections — and then overcome them.
• Learn problem-solving skills so that you can anticipate challenges and cope with setbacks.
• Practice relaxation skills, such as yoga, massage or meditation.
• Engage in regular physical activity or exercise.
• Get adequate sleep.
• Get encouragement from supportive friends and family.

SOURCE : http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stress/AN01128