EATING THE PSYCHOLOGY

Control weight gain and compulsive eating behaviors by making better choices about the food that you eat.

Control weight gain and compulsive eating behaviors by making better choices about the food that you eat.

ConsumptionSome of us more than others realize that what we eat can effect how we feel such as eating too little or too much. We should be able to enjoy what we eat but also feel better when we do.

Eating healthy is a challenging task that many of us strive to achieve but often fall short.

InfluencesCultural, social, family, and economical factors may be a direct influence linked to our food and eating behaviors. However, a more serious influence such as stress, boredom and anxiety can play a larger role as many of us eat as a coping mechanism. Although it can sometimes help bring relief and ease feelings, it often leads to regret and build more negativity. Avoiding the problem with food will often create another problem with self-image when suffering from weight gain or other negative affects caused by unhealthy eating.

Weight ManagementHere are tips to help you manage your weight.

For starters, never skip a meal. By skipping a meal, you’re allowing yourself to become hungry later which can result in reckless binge eating. Be sure to plan your meals ahead of time and limit night time snacking. This will allow you to always be one step ahead of your weight by creating a routine. If you’re getting a craving between meals, try to exercise or find another way to distract yourself from food. continued on page 16

Eating Diary - This is a great tool to keep track of your eating habits. Record what food you eat and when you eat it. Also take note of how you feel after eating and if you were doing anything while eating such as using your phone or watching TV.

By recording your habits, you will be able to pinpoint which foods and activities to avoid. The diary can also assist you when you’re working with a dietitian to help you make the best decisions.

Tranz Central Coast

Tranz Central Coast (TCC) uses outreach and advocacy to help transgender and other gender-diverse people live authentic, productive and happy lives in a safe and affirming community. Web: www.tranzcentralcoast.org

Equality California

Equality California brings the voices of LGBTQ+ people and allies to institutions of power in California and across the United States, striving to create a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people. Web: eqca.org

Gala Pride And Diversity Center

The Gala Pride & Diversity Center advocates for the Central Coast’s LGBTQ+ community and prioritizes the individuals of the Central Coast in their everyday lives from helping someone new to the area to find connections to helping a person find support services. Web: galacc.org

Pacific Pride Foundation

Pacific Pride Foundation proudly provides services to the HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ+ communities of Santa Barbara County. All of our programs are free or low-cost. Web: pacificpridefoundation.org

SANTA BARBARA GAY MEN’S CHORUS

We are a non-auditioned ensemble so anyone and everyone is welcome to join! Our rehearsals will be Monday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:30pm at the First United Methodist Church located at the corner of Garden and Anapamu. Web: www.sbgmc.org

The Diversity Center Of Santa Cruz County

Each year, The Diversity Center reaches approximately 10,000 individuals through our onsite programs, outreach and education events, our work with school-based Gay/Straight Alliances, and our Triangle Speakers program. We fulfill our mission to inspire and support every member of the LGBTQ+ community with a culture of wellbeing. Web: www.diversitycenter.org