stress and overeating

How does one control overeating due to stress? Specifically, is there something in Chinese medicine that can help with this problem. The answer is yes! Understand, Chinese medicine looks at the source of the problem rather than just the symptom. Thus, don't try to control the overeating but rather control the stress. So, how does Chinese medicine control stress? Find a skilled acupuncturist. Many times this is all you need. If you are on a cruise, Princess Cruises often have an Acupuncture Physician on staff. Also, find out, if you can, what the source of stress is. You need to be a detective. Is it getting up at a certain time? Hey- you're on a cruise! Don't worry about getting up at 5 AM. Allow yourself to get up a little later and so on. Sometimes, however, the source of the stress can be deeper. Western medicine talks of Anxiety Disorders which can flare up without a particular external trigger, even when everything else seems to be going well. Many people take strong medicines for this kind of thing, medicines like Xanax. Unfortunately, Xanax is addictive and people can build a tolerance to it, necessitating higher doses and stronger medicines. One Chinese formula I sometimes prescribe, a mild one, is called An Shen Bu Xin Wan. Chinese herbal formulas are based on each patient's unique pattern of stress, so unfortunately there is no one -size- that- fits- all formula. Instead, speak with your Holistic doctor/Acupuncture Physician about safer herbal alternatives.