So there you are, you, the TV, the clicker and a yummy treat. Is this ok or should you be worried it could lead to problems down the road?
Low self-esteem and negative self-image can have a significant impact on an individual’s health and well-being, particularly in terms of weight management. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated a link between low self-esteem, overeating, and unhealthy food choices, which can lead to obesity and other health problems.
One study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that individuals with low self-esteem are more likely to engage in emotional eating, which is characterized by the consumption of food as a means of coping with negative emotions. Emotional eating has been linked to increased food intake, particularly of high-fat, high-sugar foods, and ultimately leads to weight gain and obesity (Macht, 2008).
In another study, researchers at the University of Liverpool found that low self-esteem was a significant predictor of obesity in children aged 11 to 16 years (Griffiths et al., 2006). The study found that children with low self-esteem were more likely to overeat and consume junk food, leading to an increased risk of becoming overweight or obese.
Moreover, a study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that individuals with low self-esteem were more likely to experience weight gain over time (Gupta et al., 2012). The study followed over 2,000 adults for four years and found that those with low self-esteem were more likely to gain weight compared to those with high self-esteem. The researchers suggested that negative feelings about oneself may lead to a lack of motivation to engage in healthy behaviors such as exercise and healthy eating.
Another study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that individuals with low self-esteem were more likely to choose high-calorie, high-fat foods compared to those with high self-esteem (Heatherton & Polivy, 1991). The study suggests that individuals with low self-esteem may use food as a means of coping with negative emotions, leading to the consumption of unhealthy foods and ultimately contributing to obesity.
Clearly the evidence is overwhelming, low self-esteem, negative self-image, and negative beliefs about oneself can contribute to overeating, unhealthy food choices, and ultimately obesity. But building a positive self-image to healthier eating behaviors, weight management, and improved overall health isn’t so easy either. The real challenge lies in reprogramming life-long beliefs that sabotage efforts to create long-term healthy habits.
Unfortunately, even the most well-intentioned therapists, books, podcasts and coaches dont’ have the tools to help people bypass the filter of the conscious critical mind and embed empowered beliefs deep into your subconscious mind. Multiple studies show most people fail to make long term change last more than 6 months and fail at the same life resolutions 10 times over. So what do we do?
The Winner’s Mindset Training Program was created to solve these challenges and it’s backed by over 300 scientific studies. To learn more check out The Winner’s Mindset HERE.
References:
Griffiths, L. J., Wolke, D., Page, A. S., Horwood, J. P., & Team, A. S. (2006). Obesity and bullying: different effects for boys and girls. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 91(2), 121-125.
Gupta, N., Goel, K., Shah, P., Misra, A. (2012). Childhood obesity in developing countries: epidemiology, determinants, and prevention. Endocrine Reviews, 33(1), 48-70.
Heatherton, T. F., & Polivy, J. (1991). Development and validation of a scale for measuring state self-esteem. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 60(6), 895-910.
Macht, M. (2008). How emotions affect eating: a five-way model. Appetite, 50(1), 1-11.
