Binge Eating for 20 Years.. Why?

by Andrea
(Melbourne, Australia)

Hi Stefanie,

I am a 51 year old single lady who has been struggling with binge eating over the last 20 years - I have had long periods where I have eaten sensibly (not dieting) but then revert back to overeating.

I am still trying to work out why I do this - I have no financial problems, have no relationship issues , have a loving family and my health is good (I try and exercise everyday).

Your website had been very helpful - many thanks.

ANSWER

Sometimes the reasons we binge are NOT obvious. Especially when it been as long as 20 years. The reasons you started comforting with good may have originated so long ago that you've 'forgotten' why you even began.

You may want to think back to when you first started binge eating or overeating.

What was the trigger?

Was it stress, relationships, boredome?

Did it start in childhood?

Were you taught to comfort with food?

Sometimes it doesn't boil down to one answer... but is an accumulation of many different situations and beliefs that have developed.

The good news is that no matter 'why' you started... you don't have to continue.

You may want to start out by writing down the beliefs that you have about food, your body, and anything that your 'little voice' whispers to you about your "faults".

This may help you get a clear picture of the beliefs that support your binge eating and overeating. Once you know these... you can create counter beliefs that you want to have; ones that will support you in a healthy lifestyle.

Use your new beliefs you created and immerse yourself in them. Read them every morning and evening... keep them on a 3x5 card in your purse. The more you focus on something the bigger it becomes.

If you haven't already... you get yourself jump started by signing up for my free monthly e-zine and mini e-course.

All my Best,

Stefanie