Let’s talk about stress eating.

The good news: it’s not a sign of weakness.
The bad news: it’s hard-wired into your biology.
The better news: you can retrain your body’s stress response to get back in control.

Why Stress Eating Happens

When you’re under stress, your body releases cortisol, your main stress hormone.

That triggers a few key things:

• Increases ghrelin (“I’m hungry”)

• Lowers leptin (“I’m full”)

• Makes your brain crave quick dopamine hits (like comfort foods)

No wonder willpower doesn’t work!

How to Spot a Stress Craving

• You’re craving specific foods (chips, ice cream), not just “food”

• You’re mentally drained or tense

• You’re not actually hungry, just overloaded

How to Break the Cycle

1️⃣ Do a 10-second check-in.
Ask: “Am I hungry, or am I stressed/tired?”
That tiny pause creates awareness.

2️⃣ Change the channel.
Try a walk, a shower, or tackle a small productive task.
Physical or mental movement can reset your system fast.

3️⃣ If you still want the food, enjoy it.
Eat a small portion with protein or fiber. Be mindful, not mindless.

When you start to recognize stress cravings, you can respond intentionally instead of reacting automatically and that’s real control.

If you’re ready to take charge of your habits and hormones for good, New Horizon Fitness Center offers 1:1 coaching designed for men and women 35+ who want sustainable energy and consistency.