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Not only will overeating cause weight gain, stress will too! Resting your mind and keeping your emotions in tact are important for not only your mental/spiritual health but also your physical health.

Health.com recommends the following methods to beat stress-induced weight gain:

  1. Choose your fats wisely. If stress causes your body to burn less of the fat you eat (making it more likely to be stored) aim to include some healthy fat in your meal—but avoid “doubling up.” For example, if you want avocado on your salad, dress your greens with balsamic vinegar rather than an oil-based vinaigrette.
  2. Add metabolic boosters. Certain foods have an amazing “fat-burning” effect and consuming them can actually aid with weight loss.Try adding chili pepper or cayenne to steamed or sautéed veggies, or if you can handle a little more heat, garnish your dishes with a sliced jalapeno. Bonus: hot peppers have also been shown to boost immunity and lower cholesterol.
  3. Take a 15-minute “post meal” brisk walk. A recent study from George Washington University found that this habit helped normalize blood sugar levels for up to three hours after eating.A post-meal walk can also serve as a little “you time” to unwind, clear your head, connect with nature, or catch up with a walking buddy—all of which can help reduce feelings of stress.

Read more ways to beat stress induced weight gain at health.com