Hello - Former Binge Eater

annehart00

Hey, just wanted to introduce myself.

I'm a 31 y/o female at the cusp of the overweight/obese BMI range. Last year, I began to see a therapist for binge and overeating issues after years of failing to deal with them on my own. I was motivated by what felt like an increase in public fat shaming and all the people who say that losing weight is as simple as calories in/calories out- in a scientific vacuum it is that simple. However, we are not lab experiments and we all have the human (spiritual and psychological) aspects to consider. Knowing this, I've tried to take a wholistic approach to my health.

I am happy to say, I've dealt with binge eating while increasing the quality of my nutrition and daily activity. I joined MFP to track my calories as I am now ready to lose weight in a way that won't trigger the cycle that leads to binge eating. I hadn't planned to do a public introduction but I've read many intros from people who remind me of myself a year ago. I just wanted to let people know that whether you reach your weight goal or not, you can become healthier and happier (which is the real prize).

Things that helped me:

Therapy: Ignore the stigmatism and think about what is best for you. If you've been going at it alone for years and you haven't succeeded then try something new. On MPF and other sites, we can all talk about best practices but you may also need professional intervention - and that is okay.

Reading: My therapist gave me two really helpful books - Christopher Fairburn's "Overcoming Binge Eating" and Anita Johnson's "Eating in the Light of the Moon". I would recommend the book "God on a Harley" as well - which is good for religious and nonreligious alike.

Healthy: I spent the last year ignoring calories and focusing on nutrition. This was very scary for me as I was afraid I'd blow up like a balloon without regulating my calories. I didn't. That being said, I really focused on eating low processed food to include lots of fruits and veggies. I, by habit, cut out meat and dairy - which lead to a b12 deficiency but also taught me the importance of well-rounded eating habit. I learned all about why grains and legumes are important too - micronutrients. After a year of this, I've learned to eat better with enjoyment and without guilt.

Anyways, I hope some of this helps. I still have a long way to go but I tear up with happiness when I realize how far I've come. Good luck everyone