Emotional eating uses food to cope with stress, boredom, or fatigue rather than physical hunger. It often adds unplanned calories. A simple pause — asking "Am I physically hungry?" — and a short delay can interrupt the automatic habit. Non-food coping (walk, call a friend) helps. Occasional emotional eating is normal; persistent patterns that distress you may benefit from support from a therapist or registered dietitian.
Key facts:
- Hunger vs craving check
- Short delay interrupts habit
- Non-food coping helps
- Seek support if distressing