Many people are struggling with their weight, especially those people who use food to deal with stress and the problems of life. From the time you’re a baby through childhood, whenever you’re unhappy, someone soothes you with a cookie. We’ve been pairing emotions with eating for so long that it’s little wonder we know anything else. Food can create soothing changes in brain chemistry, and even the simple act of chewing will increase endorphins and ease your pain. So here are some tips to stop emotional eating and finally drop that excess weight for good without even trying.

• During down times, remember good times: Stick old photos in albums instead of eating chocolates.
• Comfort yourself with a new pair of shoes. They’ll look better on you than the extra weight you’ll gain from a Boston cream doughnut.
• Keep a little project near the TV to avoid eating during commercial breaks. This one will really pay off.