Psychologist explains differences between emotional and physical hunger

Psychologist Ferahnaz Şeyma Yılmaz from Medical Park Ordu Hospital has highlighted the distinction between emotional and physical hunger, noting that eating disorders are closely linked to an individual's psychological state.

According to Yılmaz, emotional hunger often stems from intense emotions such as stress, tension, fear, sadness, loneliness, anger, or shame. Unlike physical hunger, which typically develops gradually and allows for conscious food choices, emotional hunger can appear suddenly, creating intense cravings for specific foods and leading individuals to continue eating even when full. This often results in feelings of guilt or regret.

Common eating disorders mentioned include pica, rumination disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. While more frequent in women, these conditions can affect any gender and age group. To manage intense cravings, Yılmaz suggests practicing mindfulness by asking ‘What am I feeling right now?’ instead of just ‘What do I want to eat?’, and recommends techniques such as stepping away from food environments, brushing teeth, or engaging in different activities to reduce the urge.