Emotional eating can negatively affect overall health by promoting an unhealthy relationship with food. Individuals may turn to food as a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or sadness, leading to overeating. This behavior can contribute to weight gain, poor nutrition, and long-term health issues such as obesity and metabolic disorders. Additionally, emotional eating may divert attention from underlying emotional problems, preventing effective coping strategies and leading to ongoing cycles of poor mental and physical health.