One common reason for overeating, for eating the "wrong foods" for craving and indulging in cravings is the need for emotional satisfaction. We all have common needs to feel important, cherished, loved and supported in our lives. However, we may not always take stock of what amount of cherishing or demonstration of loving support has come our way recently.

If during the course of a day you notice a sudden craving for, say, the old favorite, chocolate and the craving is so strong you just can not withstand until later in the day or perhaps even in the evening, you may be reacting emotionally to a food substance. Instead of reaching for that quick fix, try this: close your eyes, breathe deeply two or three times and think back through your day. Was there a moment of interaction with others in which you felt small, unnoticed, or noticed in a derogatory or demeaning way?