Sometimes we eat for the right reasons. When we are hungry is the first example that comes to mind. As simple as it may sound, you might be surprised at how often people eat when they think they are hungry when, instead, it is a craving.

Since we are naturally inclined to make mistakes, there are also times when we eat for the wrong reasons. An extreme craving is worth noting. More importantly, the most anxious moments are when we eat out of boredom or worse; when we seek comfort in food. We have all been there so you are not alone. But if you’re still guilty of doing this every now and then, it’s time to make some changes.

Emotional eating is not healthy. It is dangerous. You start to lose control the moment you start. Unsurprisingly, those who eat for emotional reasons also tend to develop health problems. Type 2 diabetes and obesity are two common consequences of emotional eating, as it often leads to weight gain and high blood sugar readings.

If you’re looking for comfort in food, it’s time to stop. To be fair, there is a chance that you are doing it without knowing it. Reflect on your eating habits and your current health situation. If there is something about the former that is difficult to admit and something about your health that is concerning, it is very likely that you are guilty of seeking comfort in food to some degree. To stop this behavior, you must realize that food is not primarily a source of pleasure. While eating can be enjoyable, especially when you’re hungry, you must eat to sustain and provide your body with what it needs to function. Of course, you can still eat for pleasure. You don’t have to give up your favorite foods. But you have to stop eating without restrictions and learn to moderate your portions.

Also, many people eat for emotional reasons. because food acts as a source of relief. You can change this by doing other things that are more productive and beneficial to your health.

You’re stressed? Relax by reading a good novel before bed. Do you feel a burden? Exercise it and continue your workout with a satisfying but sensible meal. What you should stop is mindless eating, because it increases your blood sugar level and expands your waistline.

Don’t eat when you’re not hungry. A good test of this is wondering if you could eat an apple every time you think of food. If the answer is no or if you prefer something else, it is because you are not hungry enough or are simply looking for an emotional reward.

Lastly, it should help you to drink a glass of water every time you think about eating. Chronic thirst can lead you to eat to feel comfortable when you should hydrate.