Just Began Binge Eating

by Lyra
(Mississauga)

I have just recently started overeating and compulsive eating. I use to be quite large,over 10 years ago. Since than I have exercised,
ate healthy and got into shape.

However, I have found myself binge eating at least 3-4 times a week. It feels like such an addiction, to the point where I eat so much food,
that I could vomit from over consuming. I wish I could stop, and what I could do.

It is really frustrating that I cannot control it. I over buy food now, and I have to eat
everything that I buy. As well, I think about what food I want all day, and think about eating it all. I really don't want to gain all the weight I lost, and I want to become healthy
again, but I don't know what to do.






ANSWER

Lyra,

I used to overbuy food at the store too. In the store I would justify it by saying, "I can eat just one; this time will be different". But it never was different.

I would always be disappointed when I ate one snickers bar after the next until the bag was nearly gone.

The best suggestions I can give you start in the grocery store:

#1: Don't Shop in Binge Mode

The absolute worst time to shop is spur of the moment for a binge eater.Purchasing food with emotional impulses are a recipe for being disappointed once again.

This is when the worst choices are made.

#2: Make a List

Make a meal plan! Make sure it consists of food that you enjoy but that are healthy for you.

Create a list to take to the store. When you are at the store make sure you stick to your list
This may take some practice; but you can do it.

Doing this will help immensely when you're home. You can't eat what's not there!

#3: Avoid the Isles with Your Trigger Foods

Try to avoid your weak spots in the store. For me this was the candy isle; especially the chocolate section.

Try having some afformations prepared to say in your mind when you see those "temptations" in the front of the store and other places.

You can simply think the words in your mind; or say them in a whispered tone if you need. Here is a good one: "Why are the choices I make in the store supportive to my health and happiness?".

If you do decide to buy treats or your trigger foods make sure they are individual servings and not large bags. This helped me to not go overboard; because I always want more chocolate ;)

#4: Dust off Your Journal

Try journal writing.

Going through all the steps of planning and shopping are all for nothing if you don't face the real problems. It will not work unless you have a driving force behind it. Otherwise it'll just be willpower; and that does not last long.

I hope this gives you some ideas to get started with!

You can also get my free e-course to help you get jump started.

All my Best,

Stefanie