The Type of Stress That Provokes Hunger Has Been Named 0 12

The reaction to stress manifests differently in different people: some lose their appetite, while others start to eat their problems away. This was stated by psychologist and therapist Ulyana Makhova.

Makhova noted that a person's behavior depends on the type of stress they are experiencing. Acute stress increases catecholamine levels and decreases appetite, while chronic stress raises cortisol levels and, conversely, provokes hunger.

Other reasons for intense hunger and cravings for fatty and sweet foods include individual characteristics and behavior patterns that are formed in the early years of life. She explained that the habit of eating to cope with anxiety often stems from childhood when parents would treat their child with sweets to comfort or praise them.

To stop eating due to stress and to overcome eating disorders, the doctor primarily advised working on mindfulness and meaningfulness. Additionally, she urged learning to distinguish between emotional and physical hunger.