Exploring the Multifactorial Nature of Emotional Eating in Women

Emotional eating, defined as the consumption of food in response to emotional states rather than physiological hunger, is a multifaceted behavior with hormonal, neurobiological, and psychosocial underpinnings. This narrative review aims to explore the mechanisms contributing to emotional eating in women, with a comparative focus on athletic and nonathletic populations. Findings indicate that emotional eating is significantly modulated by hormonal fluctuations, particularly during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, when estradiol decreases, and progesterone rises. These hormonal shifts influence neurotransmitter pathways, altering mood and increasing cravings for high-carbohydrate foods. Female athletes may benefit from hormonal regulation through physical activity, yet they also face performance-related stressors that can exacerbate disordered eating risks. Conversely, nonathletic women often experience heightened emotional eating due to lower physical activity, sociocultural pressures, and reduced emotional regulation. Emotional eating in women reflects a dynamic interplay between ovarian hormones, neurochemical signaling, lifestyle factors, and psychosocial stressors. Differences between athletes and nonathletes suggest the need for tailored, integrative interventions that address hormonal rhythms, emotional regulation strategies, and sociocultural context to promote emotional well-being and healthy eating behaviors.