I don't know how to stop giving in. . .
 

I joke that I will start tomorrow. It's even my name here! But I don't know how to stop eating the terrible things I eat because once that tiny little thought gets in my head that I want BBQ or a cheeseburger or a taco, it is like I am obsessed. I give in every time.

I have meals prepared. I have a meal or snack every 3 hours. I drink my water. But I don't know how to get the voice of craving out of my head. And if I can't get that voice out of my head, how do I at least learn how to not answer the call?

Anyone else struggle like this? Any tips or ideas? PLEASE HELP!

This is gonna take a little bit of experimenting on your part to find out what works, but there are certainly various ideas.

1) Have whatever you're craving, but limit the serving.

2) Have a healthier version of whatever you're craving, still keeping it in moderation, but making substitutions so it's not quite as calorie dense as before. Tell yourself that healthy food can still be rich, decadent and satisfying. (Because it can!)

3) Tell yourself "<craving food> is not an option. Tonight I'm having <insert healthy dinner>." Repeat as needed until craving passes. And in the meantime find a hands-on hobby to really bury yourself into.

Those are at least a few ideas to start.

I found that when I first started dieting I told myself "No more fast food no more of the good foods" I craved the junk even more! After about 2 or so weeks I no longer craved them. I've gotten off track over the last month though and now its time to restart and beat these cravings again! I'm right there with you!

Now to change my ticker....ugh. tomorrow.

i hope this doesnt sound mean.... but if i feel a craving coming on i will go and watch videos of success stories or look up pics of extremely overweight women and men. i know it sounds shallow but thats what works for me. it helps me stay away from the bad foods. also drink lots of water. its said that a craving passes in about 20 mins. so try and distract yourself for about 30 mins. i really hope this helps and i hope people dont find me rude or offensive =(

I know how it is to struggle with out of control eating. I think you have to find what works for you, but that's the hard part. Also, once you find something works for you, it may not last forever and you'll need to readjust.

For now, this is what I do when a craving hits:
chew gum
eat jello gelatin...even 2 or 3 of the single serving cups
eat a 20 cal popsicle or 2 or 3 (see my pattern? ;) )
come to 3fc and read goal stories and look at goal photos
I actually go on Victoria Secret's website and look at things I may want to wear when I hit goal
paint my nails
crochet
do some push ups or crunches or squats
Finally...this is the most important part for me: I lie to myself and tell myself that I can have this tomorrow but just not today. That way, it makes it a little less forbidden.

I hope you figure out your list soon....it CAN be done....and the more weight that you lose, the more days you are on plan, the more inspired you'll feel so it's really worth the investment.

Oh and when you don't have a food, tell yourself that you're too good for that junk. ;)

You are all so amazing - thank you!! I will try all of these - it is great to know I am not alone and that there are some strategies to try.

THANK YOU!!