These challenging economic times may affect more than just your bottom line. If you’re not mindful about your eating and physical activity, losses in your net worth will translate into gains in your pants size. Here are a dozen ways that tightening your belt could cause you to loosen it.

1.      As prices rise, you may be more tempted to go for the bargains, for example:

-      Ordering the super meal deal and saying yes to upsizing.

-      Purchasing the large, economy packages, forgoing the more expensive smaller sizes and portion-controlled packaging.

2.      On a limited budget you may choose quantity over quality, for example:

-      Going to the all-you-can-eat buffet instead of that cute little bistro that serves small portions.

-      Buying mac ‘n cheese on special instead of fresh fruits and veggies.

3.      Compared to many other forms of entertainment, eating is less expensive.

4.      As it becomes more difficult to afford luxuries like a new car, a bigger home or fancy vacations, you may turn to an excess amount of food to experience a sense of abundance.

5.      Being distracted by money worries can lead to mindless munching.

6.      You may turn to food to soothe stress, anxiety and uncertainty.

7.      Your body may store fat more easily when you’re under stress.

8.      Loss of control in one area of your life may cause you to feel out of control in other areas, such as your eating or exercise patterns.

9.      Financial stress may trigger memories of prior food scarcity. For example:

-      Perhaps there was a lot of competition for food in your family when you were a kid.

-      Your family’s lack of money meant you really did need to clean your plate.

10.  Worry can keep you up at night. Inadequate sleep can contribute to weight gain in several ways:

-      Physiological changes occur that lead to more efficient fat storage

-      When you’re tired you may reach for food as a quick pick-me-up

-      You may not handle stress as well, leading to overeating to cope

11.  You may give up exercise time to work a few more hours.

12.  You may give up your gym membership or personal trainer to save a few dollars—a big mistake if exercise was helping you manage stress and your weight.

In my next post I’ll give you 12 ways you can keep from having to loosen your belt while you tighten it.