Why Does Stress Make People Binge Eat?

Introduction

The reason for either consciously or unconsciously doing so is that eating foods that are loaded with sugars triggers the rapid production of ‘feel-awesome’ chemicals known as dopamine.

While many foods assist in the production of dopamine, high-GI foods cause a quick-release spike of the feel-good hormone. This spike is followed by a slump during which the person will feel down or depressed.

Many people find themselves bingeing more often than they realize because their bodies are craving for that rush that they get from so-called comfort foods.

Unfortunately, binge eating to overcome stress symptoms sets up an unhealthy behavior cycle. The problems causing the stress are not being resolved, but an unhealthy coping mechanism is being employed when stress triggers reward-seeking bingeing behavior.

When feelings provided by the dopamine hormones being secreted by the brain are actively sought after, the act of bingeing can quickly become a physical addiction. Again, the parallels to drug and alcohol addictions are apparent.

When the calming effects of a dopamine release are felt there can easily be an unconscious response to keep consuming more of whatever provided it. A person suffering from emotional intensity or stress, is not at their most mindful or rational regarding their own health as they are caught up in whatever the triggering drama is at the time.

They opt instead to feel that instant but temporary respite offered by the dopamine release, such as when they binge eat. The mind on auto-pilot feels that if some made it a bit better, a lot will make it a lot better. The person will then often eat more than their bodies are designed to handle, especially of the food types consumed.

High-carb, feel-good foods are not good health choices in small amounts and are very damaging when eaten in large amounts over time. Later they will probably suffer the feelings of regret that comes soon after a binge eating episode.

‘Natural’ is Not Always Good

All these actions are ‘natural’ in the sense that the subconscious mind is trying to make itself feel better. However these short-term fixes are not in the best interests of a person’s emotional and physical well being.

Those who find themselves repeatedly bolstering their emotions by putting food into their mouth are caught up in a dangerous cycle.

Wrap-Up

While it is easier said than done, people so affected must put their health first and look for better ways to deal with the stress in their lives.