It’s no secret that the keys to weight loss are diet and exercise but, apparently, avoiding a stressful marriage can be one of the most effective ways to knock inches off of your waistline.
New research out of University and Delaware and Ohio State University found that couples who are in a “high-conflict” marriage have increased appetites. Hostile couples were also found to consume more protein, salt, and calories.
After a particularly exhausting argument, for instance, you are left feeling hungry and craving ‘comfort food’. Foods such as ice cream or french fries have been found to decrease loneliness and feelings of isolation.
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The study observed the relationships of 43 couples in relation to their meals. Then, they were tested for the presence of certain hormones in their body which trigger and suppress appetite (ghrelin and leptin, respectively).
What’s interesting about the study is that their findings held true whether the couples were of normal weight or overweight.
As for obese couples, however, lead study author Lisa Jaremka revealed to Delaware Public that poor diet choices were common even if they were in a happy marriage.
Food does tend to soothe the soul and has a calming effect on people. And our eating habits aren’t solely dependent upon marriage-induced stress.
The pressures of running a home, raising kids, and thriving in our chosen careers can leave us yearning for our favorite food as a reward.
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The pressure that comes with being in strained marriages tend to push us to seek comfort in sweets and fast food.
Jaremka suggests that these new findings be taken into consideration by those who want to lose weight but are currently in a strained marriage. Furthermore, proper coping mechanisms must be developed to avoid ’emotional eating’.
As with all things related to wellness, taking a more holistic approach is key and an acceptance that it’s okay to indulge in your cravings every now and then.
But it’s when we use these indulgences as a substitute for spousal intimacy that it becomes a problem.
We all have our guilty pleasures. What’s yours?
If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them with us!
