Maintaining a healthy weight decreases risk for health problems and can improve one’s quality of life. Psychologists are experts in helping people make behavioral changes to control their food and eating habits.

Sitting down to eat, avoiding distractions like the TV, and choosing nutrient-rich foods can help. Stocking the kitchen with diet-friendly foods can also make it easier to avoid quick, unplanned meals.

Sleep

The amount of sleep you get has been shown to have a major effect on appetite. Researchers have discovered that short sleep durations are associated with an increase in energy intake, and a decrease in the levels of leptin and ghrelin, neurotransmitters that affect hunger and satiety. Clinical trials or randomized controlled trials in which subjects are placed under conditions of either short or long sleep duration, have demonstrated that increasing the length of your sleep can help control weight.

Stress

Stress affects your health and wellness in a number of ways, including causing headaches and a lack of energy. It can also increase your risk of developing certain diseases, like heart disease, high blood pressure and even cancer. In addition, it can cause you to crave sugary and fatty foods. Stress can also reduce your lung function and exacerbate breathing disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea.

During times of perceived threat, the body releases adrenaline and other hormones to prepare for battle or flight. But if this “fight or flight” response is constant, the body will produce an overabundance of cortisol, which lowers your metabolism and increases your craving for food.

Changing your belief system about stress is important. Research shows that people who believe stress is helpful have better performance, health and growth compared to those who believe it is harmful.