Do you run to the fridge when you’re feeling alone? Well, you’re not alone. New research has shown that 48 per cent of people feel that “being alone” is the biggest trigger for them to overeat. This new research from weight-loss programme LighterLife helps to bring us one step closer to understanding the important role that psychology plays when it comes to people overeating, and the role that behaviour change has in successful weight management.
“The LighterLife weight-loss programme gives people the opportunity to explore together in small groups the emotional side of overeating, while losing weight,” said local weight-management counsellor Margaret Fahy. “In this way a person can begin to manage their weight effectively over time. Knowing what they are really missing, and so often it is not food, can help them break and manage patterns of overeating.”
Find out if you are really hungry by asking yourself these simple questions:
1 Have I got a hollow sensation in my stomach? Is it rumbling?
2 Am I thirsty?
3 Has my hunger grown over time?
4 Have I eaten anything in the last three or four hours?
5 Is my hunger sudden and urgent?
6 Have I noticed a sudden change in my mood?
If you answer ‘yes’ to 4, 5 and 6 then it is more likely to be an emotional hunger rather than physical.
Remember, overeating is a behaviour that can be changed
If you are interested in finding out more about the LighterLife programme or if you would like to speak with your local weight-management counsellor why not call Margaret Fahy, Innovation House, Chapel Lane, Claremorris on 094 937 7885; 087 141 1145.
