Shame says emotional eating is a flaw; we say it’s a signal. Heather Soman, registered dietitian and certified intuitive eating counselor, explores why turning to food during big feelings is both human and understandable—and how to respond with compassion while adding better tools. 

We unpack how childhood patterns, cultural scripts, and media moments shape comfort eating, from cookies after hard days to the classic breakup-and-ice-cream trope. 

Along the way, Heather shares reflective prompts to build an emotional vocabulary, spot body cues like tight chests or restless energy, and identify the unmet needs beneath cravings.

We dig into common scenarios where food becomes the go-to: long days that end with snacks and streaming, or ADHD brains chasing stimulation with screen-stacking and grazing. 

Instead of moralizing food, we explore what those moments are asking for—rest, boundaries, connection, novelty, or creative engagement—and how to meet those needs with a broader toolkit. 

If emotional eating feels like your only coping strategy, Heather offers gentle next steps, including therapy support, reflection questions, and resources to reconnect with hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues.

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