I did stress eating...

For many of us, food is comfort. The mere act of consuming our favorite dish can transport us to a place of solace, even if momentarily. But, what happens when this comforting behavior turns into a mechanism to cope with stress? Especially in women over 40, peri- and menopausal stages can magnify the pattern of stress eating, leading to various health concerns.

Women in their 40s experience significant hormonal shifts due to peri-menopause and menopause. Estrogen, a crucial hormone, sees a decline during these stages. This dip is responsible for various symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, and, very importantly, changes in appetite and metabolism.

Cortisol, the stress hormone, interplays with these hormonal changes. When we are stressed, cortisol levels rise, pushing us towards ‘comfort foods,’ usually high in fat and sugar. These foods momentarily boost our mood by increasing brain serotonin levels. For women in their 40s, the combination of hormonal changes and life’s stressors can lead to this pattern of eating for comfort rather than hunger.

When I received the news that my mother in Ukraine was ill, a storm of emotions hit me. I found myself packing my bags and going to a familiar place, but under very unfamiliar, distressing, and even dangerous circumstances because Ukraine is at war.

I was busy in arranging healthcare for her, navigating the complicated maze of medical appointments. Every day felt like a marathon. And in this storm, I found refuge in food. Local Ukrainian pastries and ice cream that I loved as a child and once consumed in moderation became my daily comfort. I was eating not because I was hungry but because it gave me a brief escape from the reality I was grappling with.

A few days passed, and I began to feel sluggish. My sleep, already affected by jetlag, was disturbed even more, and my energy levels dropped to a new low. The added weight followed fast and it wasn’t just physical; it was emotional. I realized that while food provided a momentary escape, it wasn’t a solution to my stress.

How to break the cycle.

The first step is acknowledgment. I had to accept that I was stress eating and that it wasn’t benefiting my health—physically or emotionally.

Here’s what we can do to change the pattern of stress-eating:

1. Mindfulness: Instead of eating mindlessly, pay attention to what we ate, how much, and most importantly, why we are eating.

2. Reach Out: Share your feelings with close friends and family. Just voicing your concerns and fears helps alleviate some of the stress.

3. Physical Activity: Instead of seeking solace in food, take a walk in a park. Physical activity helped reduce cortisol levels, curbing the urge to binge eat.

4. Seek Alternatives: Look for healthier comfort foods. Fresh fruits or a warm cup of chamomile tea consumed mindfully works most of the time.

5. Acceptance: Accept that some days would be harder than others, and that’s okay. Instead of being harsh on yourself, choose to be compassionate.

Look, life's roller coaster won't stop. Especially for us 40+ beautiful women with hormones having their own rave party. But remember, we're in this together. Let's promise to eat for health, not stress. And always, always be kind to ourselves. Remember, it’s not just about eating right; it’s about eating right for the right reasons.