Really struggling with being on track

This last year has been rough on me and I've gained a few unwanted pounds. It's not really the gain that bothers me though, it's my eating. I've dealt with some pretty intense anxiety and depression (which I'm now being treated for) and I've just kinda quit caring about what I take in because for the longest time, I felt like I had so little control over my mind and thoughts. So food has become my escape. I'm all about enjoying a good meal and some goodies, but I've kinda lost all control over when enough is enough. I live a pretty busy life as a teacher and mom of 3 ... and while you'd think I'd have little time to eat, I tend to do more mindless eating than when I was a SAHM and could spend more time tracking my food. I guess I'm just asking for some advice and encouragement?? I'd love to get back to tracking my food and maybe even lose the little that I've gained, but I seem to be so all or nothing that after a week I'm done and ready to eat a ton of Reese's cups. Haha! Anyway, any help, tips, or anything is appreciated!

Replies

  • spring913
    spring913 Posts: 158 Member
    Have you tried pre-logging your food every day? Meal planning for the week can take a lot of pressure off not just food tracking but life in general. Plan your menu, grocery shop, put the menu on the fridge and follow it. I find allowing myself a treat helps immensely. I keep a bar of dark chocolate and have a square or two every night, it keeps me satisfied and gives my brain that "release" from craving and binging on junk.
  • adnankhan296
    adnankhan296 Posts: 2 Member
    What i do is pre log in all my food that i have. The first couple times is the hardest. In 30 days i logged in and lost 10 pounds. So we start slow but you can do it. Btw i have a sweet tooth i try to drink water when i have that craving. Hope that works
  • Cbestinme
    Cbestinme Posts: 397 Member
    Maybe make the above preplanned prelogging a fun task (game). If you plan to ear foods you like that are rich in nutrients (protein, fiber, fats), you may be surprised that it may be easier as you go along. If it helps ask when you eat whether it's for hunger or for fun. Once you eat for hunger (&get enough protein, fibet, fat for your body ) then you can eat as much Reese for fun that so long as your calories allow. Mfp guarantees you'll lose weight if you stay under the calories. Maybe start with a target of half pound per week and see how your body and mind adjust to that.
  • Dano74
    Dano74 Posts: 503 Member
    Congrats on getting aspects of your life under control. Good for you!

    Advice: Make your "diet" work for you. Don't adopt a diet that you can't wait to get out of. Fit those Reese's in there when you can- within your calories, you're golden. Like only eating dinner with a few snacks in the day? Eat that way and have an awesome dinner that'll leave you feeling full.

    Fact is, you can do this because it's obvious you WANT to do this. Again- just make sure it works for your lifestyle.