International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Fitness Nutrition Practice Test

Stress can significantly influence eating behavior, often leading individuals to engage in emotional eating or make poor food choices. When people experience stress, their bodies produce hormones like cortisol, which can trigger cravings for high-calorie, comfort foods, typically high in sugar and fat. This response may be a psychological mechanism to find comfort or relief from the negative feelings associated with stress.

Additionally, stress can disrupt typical eating routines, leading to overeating or undereating based on individual responses. Many people may find themselves reaching for snacks or quick meals that are less nutritious during stressful periods. This psychological link between stress and food illustrates why emotional eating often becomes a coping mechanism. Understanding this connection allows for better nutritional strategies to manage stress, such as incorporating mindful eating practices or healthier food options.