[diet4life]

I am in my 40's, not physically active (I walk) and have been trying to lose weight since 2005. I started Weight Watchers in 2005 and between September 2005 and July 2006, I lost 58 pounds. Since July 2006, I have gained all but 10 pounds back, and have started WW again. I am a stress eater for the most part. I binge, feel bad, berate myself, and binge again, knowing this isn't good for me or my self esteem. I used to do yoga, but don't anymore. Is there some sure fire way, other than taping my mouth shut, that will help me lose weight without feeling hungry, angry, or morose?

[smisen]

It sounds like you have the mechanical part of weight loss - eat less, move more - down, but maybe you need to do more to address the underlying, psychological issues for why you're binging and eating when you're stressed out. The Structure House Weight Loss Plan is a really good book for this (although I know there are plenty of good ones out there), or you might even consider seeing a therapist who can help you work through whatever's holding you back.

Good luck!

[Kim K]

Hi!!! It's good to have you with us!

[CountingDown]

You CAN do this. But, yes, you will need to find other ways to deal with your emotions.

A favorite mantra around here, "If physical hunger is not the issue, then food is not the answer".

I find that yoga, pilates, and actually all forms of exercise really help me with stress and emotional eating. When I am exercising regularly, and eating clean (mostly whole foods) I am much less likely to stress or emotionally eat.

I also have a "bag of tricks" that I keep on hand for the times when I want to reach for food when I'm not hungry. You need to find non-food substitutes that work for you.
Some of mine are:
Work in my garden
Take a buble bath
Work a puzzle
Read a book
Take a walk
Meditate / pray
Exercise
Craft or sew
Clean my closet
Experiment with makeup or hair styles
Do my nails
Call or visit a friend
Come visit 3FC
Surf the net for goal clothing ideas

You CAN do this! I found a great book (Christian) called Faithfully Fit which deals with the topic of stress/emotional eating. It was helpful on my journey!

[MRChopeful]

I tend to eat when I get bored so I whenever I feel the urge to snack I tell myself to do an hour of housework/yardword/exercise before I can have a snack - this helps me get past the craving and I'm more productive throughout the day.

[Liliann]

Hello and Welcome! Good luck with your weight loss efforts...You can do it!! Stay strong!!

[StaryTorch]

From one new member to another welcome!

Originally Posted by MRChopeful

I tend to eat when I get bored so I whenever I feel the urge to snack I tell myself to do an hour of housework/yardword/exercise before I can have a snack - this helps me get past the craving and I'm more productive throughout the day.

Ooh, I like that idea...I am going to have to try that. Maybe I will get more done at work too!