Moment With Mel: Stress And Snacks
Ok…it’s honesty time for me. Since the pandemic started in March I have gained some weight. With the weight gain comes a bit of shame and disappointment in myself. But…..I’m glad to know that I am not alone.
During my teen years, I was anorexic. Stress would cause me not to eat. Now at 50, I’m a stress eating, which has resulted in some extra pounds. Outside of the pandemic, I’ve had some health and money issues that haven’t helped my stress level. Eating comfort food makes me feel better. It doesn’t solve any of my problems, but it’s been a bit of a crutch the last few months.
According to a new survey, 76% of people polled say they’ve gained up to 16 pounds during quarantine. People say that stress has thrown off their normal food routine and that it’s made them snack more. Snacking for folks occurs when they’re not only stressed, but bored. Being a single person I can say that boredom has also played a part in my weight gain.
You can snack on healthy foods but in times of stress it does seem that the bad-for-you food makes us happier. Eating isn’t a way to deal with stress or boredom, but it did make me feel better to know I’m not alone. Depression is another issue that many of us are dealing with. That can cause mindless eating as well.
Many people in the survey DID say that they are focused on getting in shape post-quarantine and that they want to eat healthier. I definitely do. Since NONE of my jeans fit right now and I’m too poor to buy a new wardrobe, I gotta drop a few lbs. And obviously I know it’s better for my health, but that damn ice cream is good!
Gaining weight is hard to deal with but don’t be too hard on yourself. (I have to remind myself daily) We are dealing with a new situation. A pandemic isn’t something most of us have had to cope with. Things are different and will be that way for a bit. But know you aren’t alone and we will get through it. We may be a bit chunkier at the end of it, but hey….it’ll give us a reason to start a walking group! Take care of you!