Hello chicks
I wanted to post my concerns in this section for some help. I don't think I am an all out binger anymore, although I used to be, but I still have issues with overeating at night. I know this is a common problem and I am interested to hear how you are dealing with it. I feel like my night time eating is holding me back from losing anymore weight. I have been eating at more of a maintenance level lately because of it. When I was heavier this was not such a problem because I had more calories to juggle so I could get away with it. Since I took a break from calorie counting during the holidays, I feel like I am kind of out of control again and I am eating over 500 calories at bedtime every night. I just feel panicked and upset if I am not eating something as I settle down for the night. I tried the low calorie options like veggies or popcorn but they seem to lead to more of a binge because I tell myself that I should be allowed something else since I did well with these foods . Its all a head game, often I am not even hungry. I don't feel satisfied unless I have something salty, something sweet and something savory like cheese. I also seek volume. If it can be eaten in less than 5 minutes, I will crave more. I know I don't need these things, why do I do it?
I have always eaten like this since I was a child. I dont think I have ever went one night without eating a large amount of food unless I had a flu or something. Before I lost weight, I would often eat an entire meal before bed. I am toying with the idea of giving up night time snacks completely but the thought brings on really panicked feelings. I think its going to be harder than losing weight and quitting smoking combined. To top it off, I have a family so I can't limit foods completely and my husband snacks at night so the food is always around. I am also someone who can't sleep before 12pm no matter how hard I try. Going to bed early isn't an option.
How do you deal with these issues and has anyone successfully quit snacking at night all together. What was that process like for you?
Thanks for the help