10/02/2026
When we eat something sweet, a signal is generated in the brain that gives us pleasure.
This pleasure becomes a memory so that when we repeat the behavior, we know we will get the same pleasure.
The same goes for when we are under stress, and we stress-eat sweet things; our memory reminds us that it will bring joy.
Smoking habits, or another type of “addictive” behavior, are the same, just with different triggers.
When we repeat the process so many times that it becomes a habit. How to break the loop?
The prefrontal cortex understands when certain behaviors are harmful to us. It is the most evolved part of our brain and allows some control over situations.
However, this is the first part of the brain to shut down when we get stressed. And when the prefrontal cortex goes offline, we enter the mode of perpetuating old habits.
Enter ‘changing attitude and acknowledgement.’
When we consciously recognise, understand habits from a cognitive point of view and reflect on the results of our actions, we are more easily able to free ourselves from bad habits.
When you feel a craving for that sweet thing during times of increased stress, look at that craving as a set of bodily sensations (tension, restlessness, whatever), and nothing more than that. Sensations that come and go.
Does it calm you down, cheer you up, compensate you for a tough day, or some combination?
Recognizing these thought patterns can make it easier to resist giving in.
Distract yourself and substitute a healthier behavior. Take a walk, watch a movie, play with your cat, listen to music, read, or call a friend. Take away temptation.
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