Rethink Nutrition

To Eat or Not To Eat

For many of us, this really is the question. A coworker offers us a doughnut, and we silently ask, “Do I actually need this?” Oftentimes, even as we are eating something, we casually remark to a friend that we “shouldn’t be eating” the particular food item on our plate—as we take another bite.

Something seems wrong here, doesn’t it? It’s difficult to fully enjoy a food that we “shouldn’t be eating.”

How can we choose well when deciding what to munch on? It’s important to not merely consider what you eat, but what is motivating you to eat it.

One reason you may be eating is out of physical hunger. Physical hunger manifests itself through a growling or empty stomach, difficulty concentrating, and low energy. If you are physically hungry, you'll typically consider multiple food options (as opposed to craving a specific food). This hunger arrives after time has passed since your last meal, and when you eat something, the hunger subsides. Physical hunger is your body’s way of communicating that you need fuel! In this situation, consider what foods actually sound good and will satisfy you. There's no need to feel ashamed for eating out of physical hunger.

The other type of hunger is emotional hunger. You might be eating for emotional reasons if you crave specific foods (can also happen with physical hunger), you desire food shortly after you eat, you aren't experiencing symptoms of physical hunger (see above), and food doesn’t seem to satisfy, even if you consume large quantities. Emotional hunger is a sign that you have needs beyond physical hunger, something that food won’t satisfy, no matter how much you eat.

If you are experiencing emotional hunger, it can be helpful to get away from the kitchen and evaluate what is really going on. Journaling, going on a walk to clear your mind, and talking with a close friend can all be non-food ways to relieve emotional hunger. In addition, choosing foods that you enjoy eating (as opposed to ones that the culture says you "should" eat) can reduce feelings of deprivation that may cause emotional hunger later on.

So, rather than feeling angelic when you eat carrots and ashamed when you eat ice cream, try asking yourself if your hunger is physical or emotional. Your body is adept at telling

you what and how much it needs. You might be surprised at how much easier it is to eat in a balanced way if you pause to consider why you’re eating in the first place.

What Others Are Saying

Josie Werts
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Josie Werts
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"My experience working with Sydney at Rethink Nutrition was wonderful! She helped me see that consistency and balance are an important part in being healthy, and she taught me how to work towards food freedom. It was easy to be honest about challenges, and I was always met with patience and new solutions to try. There were so many days I wanted to give up on recovery, but her encouragement and advice helped me keep going. If you're struggling but hesitant to see a dietitian, I would suggest Rethink because you deserve the care and support to get better. Sydney is truly amazing at what she does. She's my hero!"

Drew Davis
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Drew Davis
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"I rarely leave reviews for anything online, but I have to say that Anna Binder and the team at Rethink Nutrition genuinely changed my life. After suffering from IBS and acid reflux for years, it only took a few months with Anna's treatment for me to be almost completely symptom free. I have so much more knowledge and control over my health now than I ever thought possible - not to mention that I can eat without hardly any restrictions or concerns anymore. Could not recommend enough!"

Dunia Harmison
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Dunia Harmison
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"In just over a week of working with Anna, I feel great! I no longer feel the need to lay down during the day, my face is clearing up, and I'm no longer feeling bloated by foods that I eat. If I'm feeling this good already, I'm excited to see how much better it gets in the coming weeks."

* Results can very. Testimonials are the result of clients committed to changing their health.
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