EMO EATING - it sucks.... why can't I just turn it off?

I have nothing to be upset about...life is pretty good.  I mean I've got stresses and things that bother me just like anyone else does.  I've been at 240lbs for months and months now.  I'm still working out so the only thing I can contribute to this is the snacking I'm doing.   It seems to be out of control.  I reach for things like chips and sweets.   It's just awful.   Why can't I care to love myself enough to stop this?   I almost hate the idea of cooking these days....

I've decided to attend a Overeaters Anonymous Meeting

I've always been honest with people here so why not share?  It might inspire someone else or help them too.   I have 30lbs to go to reach my goal and I am going to do it.

So what's the positive to all of this?   I am still working out at least 3 times a week but shooting for 5.  I'm averaging 4 so that's better than not going at all.  The OA classes are free, I was shocked to see how many meetings were in my area.  They fit into anyone's schedule...even as crazy as mine is.

I want my brain to get on track with what I want in my heart - SKINNY JEANS!

Jamie...I think  you are very handsome man and I think you have done a wonderful job..Keep your chin up and keep up the good work...You have to learn to love yourself before anyone can truly love you..We all have our weak moments,we just have to find other ways to supress our needs of those naughty nasty foods..It sounds as though you are knowing what you want and what you need to do..Stay focused and be positive....Here if ya need a friend

Hi Jamie,

OA is great.  It is the only thing I've ever done around this food thing that has worked.  I've been away from it for a while, but hope to get myself back to meetings.  I just had my surgery a month ago. 

I just went through your pictures, from the one at 325 where you look very tough and unhappy, to the recent ones where you are pretty much beaming.  You look great, and I can tell you feel great too.  Congrats!

Jamie - Look how far you have come in such a short amount of time!  I get down on myself too when I dont see the numbers keep falling.  Something you said about wanting to do 5 days a week of working out.....  I have found that you really do need to find the outdoor activity that you truly enjoy.  The gym thing suxs rotten eggs for me,  BUT I found I love running and found a whole new group of friends by running 5K races, not that I come close to placing.  I try to beat my own time as a goal.  I enjoy it and thats the only reason I contiinue to do it.  Knowing myself if it feels like a chore and something I HAVE TO DO for weight loss then I will do it for a bit then stop.. Find that thing you truly enjoy and then it will happen.  As far as snacking,  I do it too but find if I drink something instead he helps he hunger or even a granola or protien bar.  Hope any of this can help.  All the best to you. - Albert

Thanks for all of the support guys, I really appreicate it  :)

Friend request me if you haven't already!

Get the chips and snacky stuff out of the house! Can you eat nuts and stuff? Or protein bars when you need something or fruit?

If you feel hungry have some fluids to make sure you aren't just thirsty...

Find something else to keep your hands busy! (you don't need to tell me what it is!) Read a book, play cards, clean house, turn up the music and dance...do some yoga or the plank (love the plank!)

Do something other than eat....something that you enjoy...

find out what is behind the emo stuff....are you lonely, angry...sad....feel it, don't drown it with food and then think of ways to make it better. And last but not least....do something for someone else! Call someone who is down...send a birthday card or note or offer to help some one who needs it...it will help with the emo feelings....

Best of luck to you!! Enjoy the sunshine if you can! Goal is very very close.....

deb366

Thanks Deb, you are so right.   I've been wanting to learn to paint.  I think I am going to buy some canvas and some paints and try that.

 Jaime I feel your pain.  I have been working with a therapist on my emotional eating.  You are a step ahead in that you've been able to identify that this is emotional eating. The challenge is what to do next. Recognize that what you are feeling is emotional...and deal with that instead of eating your way -- my way -- through it.

You have done a terrific job with yourself. You are certainly one of my role models.

I know, I kick my self in the ass all the time on this issue, but then I have to look at the big picture and realize I have done well, 168lbs gone in 11 mnths, how can I even complain, then I see a month I havent lost anything, then get depressed, then hungry.. AHHHH!!  We will make this, and best of luck to u man!!!!  Remember, its not a destination, its a destiny!!

Daniel

Hi Jamie :)  I have a question about this.  Are you sure this is emo eating?  Or are you eating because you're bored?  I'm finding that if I'm not doing anything, I'm reaching for something to nibble and I have to slap my hand away.  My surgeon has strict rules for me to never ever snack at all and keep it to three meals a day and nothing else.  So snacking for me is almost taboo in my house.  It sounds like your activities are going really well as far as getting your exercise in.  Maybe find something to keep your brain occupied.

*HUGE BEAR HUGS*
Aaron