Triggers--Oh, the irony!

So, I have really tried to become sensitive to situations that trigger me to eat.  Among those I have realized are when I am angry, stressed, happy, or sad (basically extreme emotions)...when I am reading a book, when I am doing homework, after sex (replaces a cigarette after I quit smoking), and......when I am on my computer....YIKES!


How ironic is it that I am laying here battling an urge to eat while I peruse OH...lol.

Hi CaraScrv,

It is awesome that you've tuned in to notice your trigger situations!  Many members don't do that.  It is a huge step forward in BOTTing when you can identify those situations/emotions.  One of the important ways that I maintain my weight is to know which emotions send me to the kitchen and under what situations (stressed, overwhelmed, bored are the biggies for me). 

Congratulations to you!! 

Cathy

Hi there

I share many of those triggers - are you thinking of alternatives that can replace food at those times?  I am still in the process of thinking that through for me, but one thing I have started doing is knitting as in the evenings watching tv was when i would graze. Knitting gives my hands something to do other than picking up food!!!!

Not sure about the emotional triggers - I too eat at those times, and have found just being aware of it has helped, but now I need to come up with some strategies and alternatives.  When I was young I used to go and play the piano when I was upset, particularly when I'd had an argument with my sisters - my mum used to say that was when I played the best!!  hehe...

Sometimes now I try to take myself away from the situation - at home I go to my bedroom.  I'm still trying to think of what to do at work as I still reach for the cookies, grrrr.  Let me know some of your strategies maybe I can take them on board too....

Ruth
PS just thought thsat you could try eating something sticky and gooey while on OH which would get the keyboard all yucky - that might put you off eating while computing hehe

Cara, I recently identified my triggers.  I haven't solved the problem but I have it controlled a little better.  There was a slight relapse last night with ginger snaps.  Instead of 1 serving of 4 cookies, I ate 3 servings.  I realized it at the time and made the conscious decision to eat them and today make restitution.  Today I am planning my meals including extra exercise for the sins of yesterday.  Take care,
Z