Q&A: Am I a Food Addict?
Q: I have felt for some time now that I am addicted to food. I know that sounds stupid since we need food to live, but I feel like I can't say no to food and my life revolves around it. I feel like an addict.
I started dieting and exercising about a week ago, and every day is a struggle not to just grab something and eat it until I'm stuffed.
I realize I need to make a lifestyle change and I need some support. When I talk to my friends about struggling with dieting and saying no to sweets, they seem to sympathize but I don't think they get it.
I think I need professional help, but as a single mom, I simply don't have the time. I really do want to be healthy-for me and my baby. I don't want her to grow up like me. Any advice would be great.
--marie1st
A: I'm glad you are reaching out for help. You really do need it - and you're not alone. We all struggle with saying no to food, in different degrees. Yes, we are all "food addicts" because we have to eat, you need some strategies to get some structure in your eating, and become what's called a "mindful eater". You always want to think before you eat. Eating is both about the food and the behavior related to it. While I am sure you know an apple is a better choice than a slice of apple pie, it's a real struggle for you to resist. So, I'd suggest you join a structured program on-line, like Weight Watchers, with a lot of 24/7 support (there is a fee). Or, at no charge, is Overeaters Anonymous, that works for some people. One thing for sure - you can't do this by yourself, to get started.
For starters, get a notebook and write down everything you eat, and a note about how you're feeling when you were eating (hungry, bored, upset, just tasted good, etc...). See if there is a pattern in your eating. Instead of sweets, which you say are tough for you - try some frozen cherries, right out of the freezer. Think of fruit, which is nature's candy. Veggies are a go-to "free food". With some structure and help, you CAN succeed in managing your eating and your weight.
GREAT for you that you recognize this - and don't want your children to share these habits. With effort, and extra support (which you DO need - not your friends, who can't seem to support you here - but others struggling with their weight) from the right people, you will make progress.
Let me know how you are doing. Just take one step at a time!
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Madelyn H. Fernstrom, PhD, CNS, is the iVillage Health Editor-at-Large, Diet & Nutrition Editor for the Today Show and the Founder and Director of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center's Weight Management Center.
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