Stress Eating

[guanajagirl]

So a little background
I started a new job at a acute care floor in a hospital as a nurse. Previously I worked nights on a medsurgical floor. Much slower pace MUCH less stress. Now my work days are STRESS.
Dont get me wrong. I love the new job and it challanges me. But I've always eaten when stressed and the new job is taking a toll on my waist.
Iam sure this has been discussed before and if so someone point me to the thread! But I was just curious what kinda of advice/feedback i would get. Any hints on building up self control with this problem? Healthy snacks?

[CycleChic06]

I used to be the same way! Stress = Food. But I've actually been able to replace my stress eating with stress exercising. What's great about it is, I get to work out my agression, I always feel better afterwards (endorphins are amazing!), it helps me to analyze what I'm stressing about and see it from a more objection position and I always feel really good about myself when I'm done.

I know it can be difficult sometimes finding the time to hit the gym or go for a bike ride, but making the time for it can be really worth it! Whenever I'm stressed or really tired, I drag myself to the gym and always feel sooo much better when I'm done.

[mikki]

I am also a nurse in critical care. I have gone to nights, the stress seems just a bit less. I also have made a few dietary changes that seem to have helped me: no sodas or high fructose corn syrup, balanced lunch, healthy snacks (PB and celery, or carrots and nuts, or half a PBJ), lots of water. I've noticed that not only have I needed less caffeine, but I'm more focused and have more energy. I also make it point to walk to and from work (it's less than a mile) and when it warms up I'll be doing more cycling after shift. I work 12's, so getting exercise on my work days is a challenge. I tend to be a bit more compassionate with myself on those days, and make up for it on my days off.

[guanajagirl]

Thanks for the replies everyone. Some self dicipline is def needed and smater snacking/planning.

[KnottedYet]

When I worked inpatient, I was a wreck. Honestly, the only thing that helped me was leaving my job and my Significant Other.

To heck with carrot sticks, I just needed to change everything!:D