15/09/2026
How you feel can affect how you eat.
And it’s not simply about willpower. Our emotions, stress levels and sleep can all influence our appetite, cravings and food choices.
When we’re stressed, for example, cortisol can increase our desire for foods that are high in sugar, fat or salt, all foods that can give us a quick hit of energy or reward.
And when we’re tired, changes in our appetite hormones can make us feel hungrier and make cravings harder to manage.
So what can you do?
Don't skip meals.
Being overly hungry can make cravings much harder to manage.
Make your meals satisfying.
Include protein, fibre and healthy fats to help keep you fuller for longer.
Pause, take a breath - and check in.
Before reaching for food, ask yourself: Am I physically hungry, or am I looking for comfort, energy, distraction or a reward?
And if you are eating for an emotional reason, ask yourself:
“What else might give me what I need right now?”
Maybe it’s getting outside, moving, having a chat with someone, picking up a book or listening to music - taking some time to yourself, or simply having the food you fancy and enjoying it without guilt. Because sometimes, that is ok too! Food is not the enemy.
Understanding why we eat the way we do can help us work with our bodies, rather than constantly feeling like we're fighting against ourselves.
Louise xx
