Overcoming Social Pressure to Eat

If you might describe yourself as a bit of a people-pleaser, beware this Super Bowl Sunday.

You could have a hard time saying no to that plate of cheesy nachos and bowl of ground beef chili.

Researchers from Case Western Reserve University have found that people who don’t like upsetting others will often eat food just to make someone else happy.

Even when they’re not hungry.

“They don’t want to rock the boat or upset the sense of social harmony,” said Julie Exline, lead author of the study, in a news release. Exline is a Case Western Reserve psychologist.

Ultimately, they pay an emotional price for giving in to the social pressures to eat.

“Those who overeat in order to please others tend to regret their choices later on,” Exline said. “It doesn’t feel good to give in to social pressures.”

The study’s findings, published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, adds to the growing evidence that other people can influence our eating behaviors. It’s studies, like this one, that can help those of us trying to lose weight.

So, pack up that spinach salad or eat before you head over to your friend’s house for the big game. And learn to say no.

It’s time to focus on your happiness.

Alice Warchol is a freelance health writer and fitness instructor.

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+ Read about Emotional Triggers and Eating