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Episode Transcript

Hey there, it’s Ryann from the Food Freedom Lab. Today, let’s unpack a topic that many of you have been asking about—emotional eating. The key question here is, is emotional eating the problem, or is it just a symptom of a deeper issue? Let’s dive in and explore.

The Diet Culture Narrative

Diet culture often teaches us to focus on the food, blaming it for our problems. But what if the real issue isn’t the food itself? What if emotional eating is a symptom rather than the core problem?

Questioning the Real Problem

If you’re struggling with emotional eating, consider whether the emotion you’re eating over might be the true challenge. It’s essential to shift the focus from demonizing food to understanding the emotions we’re trying to cope with.

Emotional Eating as a Coping Mechanism

Firstly, let’s recognize that emotional eating isn’t a crime. It’s simply a coping mechanism—a way we regulate our emotions when overwhelmed. Eating when stressed is no different from going for a walk or journaling. The difference lies in how diet culture has villainized certain coping mechanisms, adding unnecessary stress.

Breaking the Stigma

By understanding emotional eating as a coping mechanism, we can stop shaming ourselves for it. Instead, ask, “What am I emotionally trying to get out of this food right now? What might I actually be needing?”

Reflecting on the Root Issue

Blaming emotional eating as the sole problem can be a deflection from addressing the root cause—the emotions we’re trying to suppress. By reframing the narrative, we can move beyond the cycle of stress, guilt, and more stress.

The Mistake of Fixating on Emotional Eating

Many make the mistake of fixating on stopping emotional eating without reflecting on the underlying emotions. It’s akin to staying on a roller coaster of ups and downs without addressing the root issues.

Expanding Perspectives

If you find yourself constantly berating yourself for emotional eating, consider reframing the problem. Is it truly emotional eating, or is it the overwhelming stress, unhappiness, or other emotions in your life that need addressing?

The Uncomfortable Work

Dealing with the root issues can be uncomfortable, but it’s crucial for growth. It’s tempting to say, “I just need to fix my emotional eating,” but life’s challenges require deeper exploration and resolution.

The Power of Curiosity

Approach this with curiosity, without judgment. Ask yourself, “Is the problem emotional eating, or could it be the emotion I’m eating over?” Be willing to explore beyond the surface.

In the grand scheme, emotional eating isn’t the problem—it’s a symptom. Shifting the focus from blaming food to understanding and addressing our emotions opens up avenues for real growth.

Links

🔗 Work With Ryann

🔗 Ryann’s Online Courses

🔗 Follow Ryann On Instagram

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