If you grew up with parents who rewarded your behavior with food, say a cookie, then it’s likely that you struggle with food as an adult. When we’re given food as a reward, or when it’s used to make us feel better, we start associating food as something that heals. Unfortunately when food is used as a reward, we can become emotionally dependent on it and as result put on unwanted weight. So the trick is to start journaling to figure out how often you’re craving food for relief or reward (vs. really needing it because you’re hungry). Once you see how often you’re craving food for relief or reward, start replacing the reward with something that won’t put on pounds. Try calling a girlfriend, go for a walk, get a pedicure, and or read a good book.
