Understanding Overeating: Patterns, Causes, and Solutions
Episode Overview
Overeating is driven by psychological, physiological, and environmental factors. Emotional regulation often leads to using food to cope with negative emotions. Childhood experiences can set the stage for emotional eating. Strict dieting can trigger binge eating episodes. Self-compassion is crucial in managing overeating behaviours.
You're not overeating because you're greedy. You're overeating for different reasons.
Ever wondered why you can't seem to stop reaching for that extra biscuit or why you find yourself binge-eating late at night? In this episode of 'Shrink, the podcast for the mind', psychotherapist and coach Philippe Tahon dives deep into the complex world of overeating. With 18 years of experience, Philippe offers a compassionate look at the various patterns of overeating, their characteristics, and underlying causes.
From emotional eating to binge eating, night eating syndrome, and even mindless snacking, Philippe breaks down each behaviour and provides insights into why we might be stuck in these cycles. Philippe discusses how emotional regulation plays a significant role in our eating habits. Using food to cope with negative emotions like sadness or anger can become a way of life if not addressed.
He also touches on the impact of childhood experiences, such as being comforted with food, which can set the stage for emotional eating later in life. Another eye-opener is the connection between dieting and binge eating. The frustration and deprivation from strict diets can often lead to episodes of overeating, making it clear that balance is key. But it's not all doom and gloom. Philippe offers practical strategies for recognising and managing these behaviours.
He emphasises the importance of self-compassion and understanding that overeating is not about greed but a complex interplay of psychological, physiological, and environmental factors. By identifying your specific triggers and patterns, you can start to make healthier choices without the guilt. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with overeating or looking to understand their relationship with food better. Philippe's empathetic approach and wealth of knowledge make it both informative and comforting.
So, if you're tired of feeling guilty about your eating habits, tune in to gain some valuable insights and start your journey towards a healthier relationship with food.