Snacking when you're bored is common. It's a type of emotional eating where you reach for food when there's nothing else to do – going for a bag of chips or opening a pack of cookies just to occupy your hands, even when you're not hungry.
But eating when you're bored can cause problems over a long period. It can cause weight gain and associated health risks.
It’s a habit you can beat, and these tips on how to stop eating out of boredom can help.
1. Eat Off a Plate
When you don't portion your food, you risk eating more than you should. If you want to snack, make it intentional. That way, you don't overeat directly from the original bag or container packaging. A plate or bowl can help you stick to the proper serving size.
2. Avoid Eating in Front of a Screen
Most of the boredom eating happens mindlessly in front of the TV. It's not wrong to eat a small snack when watching your favourite show, but people tend to eat more when they're in front of a screen than when they're doing another activity. Try to break the link between the screen and food by keeping your hands busy another way.
3. Learn Your Triggers
Do you mostly eat when you're studying? Or in bed, while you're reading a book? Think about the environment and activities where you most commonly snack out of boredom so you can think of alternatives. Maybe have a cup of tea to keep you busy while doing a tedious task so you don't reach for food.
4. Eat Mindfully
Mindfulness can improve your mental health, and mindful eating can help you overcome eating when you're bored. If you take the opportunity while you eat to focus on just eating, you can become more aware of what hunger is and what boredom is. That means no scrolling on your phone or working on your computer – just be in the moment while you're eating.
5. Eat Filling and Nutritious Food
A balanced diet is critical for good mental and physical health. Most snack foods are empty calories; they don't fill you up for long, so you keep returning to eating. But if you eat more balanced meals and snacks throughout the day, you will be satisfied and less likely to give in to unhealthy snacking.
Protein and fibre-rich foods are filling, satisfying, and are part of a well-rounded diet. P2 Eat Smart carries foods that are delicious, easy to grab and go, with plenty of protein and nutrients to satisfy your appetite. P2 Eat Smart’s Powerful Penne is a quick ingredient that’s packed with protein to keep you full – bonus: it’s quick to whip up, so it’s the perfect last-minute meal. Just choose your favourite pasta sauce and veggies to satisfy your snack cravings.
From delicious pasta, croissants, and filling toasts, you can still eat everyday foods without feeling like you're missing out. Including different varieties and flavours, you can easily change up your meals without getting bored. Shop with us to try delicious protein-rich foods that taste like the real thing.
