Stress During Stay-at-Home Period Changes Our Eating Habits

The feeling of dissatisfaction and increased appetite that many people experience while staying home due to coronavirus (COVID-19) has a scientific basis. According to information shared by Sabri Ülker Vakfı, the sudden changes in our daily routines cause our bodies to be under the influence of chronic stress. It has been established that most people eat more when they are stressed. When our body encounters stress, the levels of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol increase in the blood. This condition, which occurs temporarily, raises blood pressure and returns to normal levels when stress disappears. In chronic stress, however, there is prolonged exposure to stress hormones, particularly cortisol, and the body may not return to a healthy resting state. While high-level stress suppresses appetite, less intense but longer-term stress, such as being under pressure during work, affects eating behavior in different ways. Many people eat more when under stress, while approximately 30 percent are estimated to eat less than normal. When we perceive an immediate threat (acute stress), the brain sends a signal to many systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) system, and activates stress hormones. In people who eat moderately or diet, stress can cause conscious controls to be overridden, leading to excessive consumption of 'restricted foods.' Those who are more 'aware' of their appetite and metabolism, on the other hand, may tend to eat less during stressful situations.

Eating during stressful times leads to excess weight

Increased nutrient consumption during stressful times can reduce stress symptoms, but this results in weight gain over the long term. This applies even to healthy individuals who show high cortisol responses to stress. The anxiety and worry created by coronavirus can create a chronic stress condition, leading to elevated cortisol levels and consequently increased eating tendency. High cortisol levels that create synergy with high insulin levels can increase fat accumulation around the waist.

Mobile applications are effective in managing stress

Meditation applications accessible via smartphones, as well as applications that track daily dietary habits and physical activity, can be used to reduce stress. These programs have recently been used frequently to control irregular eating and create awareness. The programs employ techniques that interrupt habitual thought patterns, emotions and behaviors related to habits while increasing awareness. This approach helps people connect with hunger, satiety and emotions rather than rely on learned responses. In a study on this subject, it was found that 86 percent of individuals who participated in mindfulness programs applied to reduce stress ate less. This approach not only helps weight control by improving food choices but also reduces underlying stress.