[ncuneo]

I used to average 1 binge a month, usually always around TOM. Since it was infrequent I just accepted it and moved on. But since my training for a half marathon started to get a tad harder (a slight increase in the milage from my typical work outs) I've been binging once a week. Fortunatly I'm not gaining, just maintaining. Which is fine except I want to lose another 5 lbs and I don't want my maintence to work this way. I'd rather add HEALTHY cals to my weekends and keep my weekdays as is. Right now I'm adding not so healthy cals (not horrible - think dark chocolate, but sometimes healthier crackers and animal cookies (they're my sons) )to my weekends in the form of a binge.

Now my question is that its always carbs I'm binging on and I've heard from another member (same7 I think) that when you run you deplete your glycogin (I can't spell and I barely know what I'm talking about) levels when you run longer and if you don't replenish your body will beg to replinish it. This makes since, except that I have healthy carbs with almost every meal. So what else can I do to combat this if this is actually the issue. I really don't want to start carb loading or add any more food to my day.

[sacha]

If you are training for a half marathon and eating below maintenance calories, you are going to be craving more food (esp carbs) because training requires the fuel. You should try increasing your carb intake just a bit to see if that helps. Generally, performance goals such as marathons,half marathons, and dieting, don't mix well.

[ennay]

I think you said your long run is only up to 4 miles? Which means you are not really getting into glycogen depletion zone unless you are running chronically depleted. Which is often the case in a diet to lose.

Timing is everything. Replenish after your long run within 30-45 minutes with an adequate size meal (300-400 calories minimum) and you will crave less later.

And be prepared. Right now it sounds like the binges are hitting and you are faced with poor choices. Make a list and have on hand good choices with protein and good carbs.

[ncuneo]

Yeah, I figured it was way to early in my training to be having this issue. I think it may be more mental...kinda testing the waters to see what my body will allow before it starts gaining...and a little, well I'm running later I can handle a hand full of crackers. Either way, dangerous game and time to nip that in the bud. I think I need to take my own advice - this is all a lifestyle changes! There really is never a good reason to *allow* a binge - except maybe TOM