How may stress influence eating behaviors?

Prepare for the NFPT Nutrition Specialist Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, along with hints and explanations for each query. Gear up for your success!

Stress is known to have a significant psychological and physiological impact on individuals, particularly affecting their eating behaviors. When under stress, many people experience a change in their appetite and food choices. Often, stress triggers the release of hormones such as cortisol, which can lead to cravings for high-calorie, sugary, and fatty foods. This is thought to be a natural response, as these types of foods can provide quick bursts of energy and comfort, temporarily alleviating feelings of stress and anxiety.

The preference for unhealthy foods during stressful times is linked to a desire for emotional relief. Eating these foods can lead to feelings of pleasure, as they stimulate the brain's reward system. As such, stress tends to disrupt balanced eating habits, prompting individuals to reach for comfort foods rather than nutritious options.

Other options reflect outcomes that are less common in stressed individuals. Healthy eating habits and maintaining regular meal patterns often decline under stress, and portion sizes typically increase rather than decrease as people indulge in comfort foods.

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