stress related weight gain

so it turns out that I gained 20 pounds due to stress-eating. doc told me to take it easy. I know. but I want to lose those 20 pounds!! Those 20 pounds make me more stress every day.

My biggest problem is that I'm hungry 24/7 no matter how much I eat. Does anyone know how I can control my stress? I think I need to control my stress first before I can start losing any weight. What can I do to stop this stress? do i need to take stress pills?

Hi Slim Lady.

My suggestion is to try and reduce stress, one small step at a time.

Try to replace stress trigger food... Ie junk with healthy alternatives.  You won't beat yourself up eating a orange but would if you at a greasy hamburger.

Try chewing gum an maybe increase water intake.

I wish you well, I also hope you can reduce your stress.  Stress can cause so much other problems.

Good Luck

Some of my recent gain is stress related, too - belly fat is stress related...no fun!

When I can muster it - excercise actually relaxes me. Instead of sitting around watching TV, I do the elliptical or just stretch when I watch my favorite shows.  Maybe try to get more sleep, too [which is hard for me w/ an 18 month old].

Good luck, it's not easy - but like Canadianchick said - take small steps!

Try to figure out what triggers your stress, and work on fixing that.  Go one step at a time.  For example, if you stress because you have a big test coming up, schedule time in your day each day to prepare for it, that way when it comes around, you can look at your calendar and know that you've prepared.  The most important part of mitigating stress is to keep focused and dedicated to fixing the problem.  I'd also recommend trying yoga or pilates, they're good exercise, but can also help relieve stress and clear your mind. 

I am a stress eater.  When my grandmother was sick all that we did was sit and drink tea and eat.  We were trying to get her to eat, so there was always food on the table.  My aunt and I both gained.  I gained thirty pounds in six months.  I have taken off 22 pounds in the last six months.
The best thing to do is to eat regular meals.  If there is something constantly in me I do not feel the need to snack as much or to binge lately.  And I have binge issues.
By eating healthy you will help your stress levels.
Meditating, yoga, deep breathing, bubble baths, etc can help.   

hello. My only suggestion is that, just relax and take it easy. Don't always think of it. It can just make you more stressed. Have an exercise 3-4 time a week and have a BRAT diet. Brat means..... This will help you losing weight but helps you maintain your body balance.

B-anana

R-ed meat

A-pple

T-ea

I read that fish reduces stress. Both eating them and watching them.