What term describes eating when you are upset, bored, stressed, or engaged in other activities?

• A. Craving
• B. Balanced eating
• C. Mindless eating
• D. Hunger

Answer: (C)

Mindless eating describes grabbing food while upset, bored, stressed, or absorbed in another activity, so you’re not paying attention to what or how much you’re eating. It happens when emotions or distractions take over, not genuine physical hunger. Because you’re not aware of your fullness cues, it’s easy to eat more than you need. Hunger is a physical signal that your body needs energy, often with cues like a growling stomach or lightheadedness. A craving is a strong desire for a specific food, which can occur with emotions but isn’t necessarily tied to distraction or a lack of awareness. Balanced eating refers to a healthy overall pattern, not this automatic, distracted eating behavior.