Caroline Lacey, RD, LDN | Source | Registered Dietitian at Nutrition Rerooted

Some parts of the body can only use carbs (in the form of glucose) for energy. The body can store some carbs in the liver for later use, which acts as an energy reserve for the body to use when blood sugar levels are low, such as between meals. But there’s a limit to the amount that can be stored, and eventually, the supply becomes depleted.

"It’s not uncommon for people to turn to food in times of stress; food can be soothing, distracting, and even numbing, and therefore can provide temporary relief from uncomfortable feelings. But using food to cope with stress is sometimes like putting a band-aid on a wound: it’s a short-term and ineffective solution that won’t fix the problem.

That being said, there are nuances, and food can actually be a helpful coping mechanism. Food restriction or dieting, for example, can be a source of stress. If you’re not eating enough, then food may be exactly what your body needs, and in that case, eating is a healthy coping mechanism."