Why do we eat?

Why do we eat? Surely your first answer to this question will be “Because we are hungry”, but if we stop to think, the reason or root of our hunger is not always the same. Types of hunger Hunger of the senses Sight or smell can greatly influence our diet. We are constantly exposed to food temptations. The senses not only what dish we choose, but can also lead us to eat and even feel hungry when we really are not. This is what is known as “eating with your eyes.” Hunger due to boredom Whether it is because we have a habit of eating on certain occasions (and if we don’t it seems like we are missing something), as if we are at home without having anything to do and suddenly we think about snacking on something… Boredom and habit can make us feel hungry when in reality our body does not need to eat. Hunger due to anxiety or impulsivity Our psychological and emotional state is another fundamental factor when determining hunger. Hunger attacks, binge eating (usually on high-calorie foods), can be an escape route from other feelings. It is very important not to confuse anxiety and appetite. Hunger for a reward After a stressful, difficult or tiring day, sometimes we crave an edible reward. This can be an unconscious, or sometimes even conscious, way of rewarding ourselves for something. How to identify if hunger is real and control it Before starting to eat these attractive foods, it is important to become aware of the situation. Stop and think if you are really hungry. How many hours has it been since the last meal? How much is left until the next one? Planning is essential for control false hunger attacks. If you plan your menu with a specific schedule, eat 5 meals a day, starting with a complete breakfast, you will be able to control temptations more easily.