Whether it’s a warm bowl of mac and cheese or a cold pint of ice cream, we all have comfort foods that can cure anything from a bad break-up to a bad day at work. Although these foods may soothe tough emotional problems, they tend to cause even worse physical problems, such as weight gain. Waterford residents who are striving to lose weight may find that comfort eating is a big hindrance to reaching their weight loss goals, which is why healthier alternative coping mechanisms must replace comfort eating to ensure successful weight loss. It sounds simple enough, but it’s easier said than done.
The majority of Americans choose comfort eating as their go-to coping mechanism simply because it’s quick, easy, and convenient. You can indulge in a Snickers bar while at the office or drink a chocolate shake while on the road. Although comfort eating certainly gets the job done, the bottom line is that it doesn’t help you lose weight or stay healthy. When confronting the problem of comfort eating, residents of Waterford and beyond should consider alternatives that are equally satisfying and easy to access.
Since we all have our own guilty pleasures, the list of alternative coping mechanisms may be different for everyone. However, a few good ideas that may help you stay out of the fridge and meet your weight loss goals include painting, calling or visiting friends, reading a good book, taking a bubble bath, watching television, listening to some feel-good music, going for a walk, doing yoga, or taking a nap. These alternative mechanisms not only help you feel better when your day gets overwhelming, but they also eliminate that guilty feeling afterwards. In the long term, you will be better prepared to lose weight and enjoy a healthier lifestyle without comfort eating.
