Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign up Log in
Powered By
Real members of MyObesityTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Emotional Eating Verses Hunger

A MyObesityTeam Member asked a question 💭
Astoria, OR

Has anybody experienced emotional eating verses actual hunger? I have battled eating disorders all my life so the 2 seem to go hand in hand for me

December 15, 2018
 • 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members opened up about the daily struggle of distinguishing emotional eating from true hunger, with many sharing that stress, anxiety, and... Read more

Members opened up about the daily struggle of distinguishing emotional eating from true hunger, with many sharing that stress, anxiety, and the need for emotional comfort often drive them to eat even when physically full. Several members offered practical strategies that have helped them, including working regularly with a dietician or counselor, drinking lots of water, brushing teeth after meals, and asking themselves whether they are stomach hungry or just mouth hungry before reaching for food. A recurring theme was the unique challenge of food addiction, since unlike other substances, food cannot be avoided entirely, making recovery an ongoing battle that requires both self-compassion and professional support.

A MyObesityTeam Member

Yes, I was diagnosed with compulsive binge eating disorder 20 years ago . It’s a battle every day not to eat. Having a eating disorder is the worst kind of addiction.. because although all other addictions can walk away from theirs... a body needs food unless we just do liquid diets for rest of our life.. but then theirs still a chance of overeating that way as well.. so no win for us... getting a dietician on your side and seeing them weekly or every two weeks is a must..it can help a lot.

January 4, 2019
A MyObesityTeam Member

I go through it daily. Trying to find healthy alternative. Yes it is very hard

December 19, 2018
A MyObesityTeam Member

I constantly catch myself wanting or trying to find something to eat when I feel down, stressed, or anxious.

April 24, 2019
A MyObesityTeam Member

I eat to feel emotionally full and that is where I am making a mistake.

March 19, 2019
A MyObesityTeam Member

I am an emotional eater and it's worse at night. At times i will keep eating after feeling miserable and full

February 1, 2019

Related content

View All

How Does Everyone Deal With Stress Eating And Emotional Eating

A MyObesityTeam Member asked a question 💭
Pennsylvania Furnace, PA

Why Do I Feel That I Never Get Enough Food

A MyObesityTeam Member asked a question 💭
Tucson, AZ

Who Else On Here Has A Love/hate Relationship With Food?

A MyObesityTeam Member asked a question 💭
Williamsburg, VA