So with most of the country at home and out of routine, snacking is probably at an all time high. I decided to pull out a 2015 throwback from an Ask Dr RJ advice column to give us all some guidance:

Dear Dr RJ,
I have been trying to lose weight for a long time now and nothing seems to work. These extra pounds frustrate me and although no one knows it, I hate looking at myself.
Signed,
Don’t Look at Me

Dear Don’t Look at Me,
I am not a weight loss expert, so first you should see your primary care physician to be sure that no medical problems exist (i.e. Thyroid). If you’ve been cleared medically, then most likely your issue is emotional. Emotions love carbs. Sadness loves sweets, boredom loves chips, feeling empty or lonely loves bread, etc. These aren’t literal comparisons but you get my point right? Emotional management will help significantly with weight management. Reduce stress. Stress triggers the hormone cortisol, and cortisol makes it nearly impossible to lose weight. Lastly, eat mindfully. When you eat ask yourself, “why am I eating this?” and keep a daily journal of what you eat, when you’re eating, and how you feel at the moment. You can do it! Just take one moment at a time.

Other tips for Mindful Eating:

Mindful eating is the practice of engaging all five senses and being emotionally present and attentive while eating meals and/or snacks. It prevents overeating as well as emotional eating. If you’ve ever eaten a meal and it was gone before you knew it, or you don’t remember the taste of the meal then you’ll definitely benefit from mindful eating.

Try it:
Focus completely on your meal. No tv, phone, or other outside distractions.
Fully engage all five senses when eating.
Appreciate and observe each bite.
Repeat.
Stop when you’re satisfied.

Be Well,
Dr. RJ