Managing busy 12 hr shifts

hearts895
hearts895 Posts: 12
in Health and Weight Loss
Hi all, this is my first time posting here :) I've been a MFP member for nearly a year now and I've graduated from college and now have a (wonderful but busy) job as a nurse, working 12 hr shifts in acute care. Every shift I bring a cut up apple and some celery in little baggies and a 0 calorie drinks (like Sparkling Ice & coffee). For lunch I'll have a Healthy Choice meal and a small salad with light salad dressing. I've been doing pretty well but invariably there will be a little treat in the break room or someone will offer me a little treat and I'll take a little bit. As we all know those "little bits" add up. But I start to feel tired and the self indulgent side of me will say "oh I worked it off, since I haven't had time to sit down for 4+ hours" etc and give in. Does anyone else here work longer than 8 hours and how do you stick to your strict diet plan? I know self control is the best answer but I'd love to hear from others who have been there :)

Replies

  • fattyfoodie
    fattyfoodie Posts: 232 Member
    I have an office job but I normally am at work for 10-12 hours a day, five days a week.

    My strategies:

    I only eat food I bring with me UNLESS it is a pre-planned indulgence (a birthday celebration, lunch out, etc). I do not partake of any treats that are brought in for no reason. And there are lots.

    Water. I keep a 24 ounce water bottle next to me on my desk and I drink water all the live long day.

    I don't really take breaks per se, but about every hour or so I get up from my desk and walk to the other end of the floor and back. It takes me about 5 minutes and gets me a change of scenery.

    I have opted out of receiving work emails about treats in the break room.

    Good luck!
  • hearts895
    hearts895 Posts: 12
    Thanks! I guess I just need to learn to have some better self control! I think I will try to space eating out my healthy snacks so I have something to look forward to.
  • fattyfoodie
    fattyfoodie Posts: 232 Member
    Thanks! I guess I just need to learn to have some better self control! I think I will try to space eating out my healthy snacks so I have something to look forward to.

    It really sucks to have co-workers who are always eating treats when you are trying to lose weight. I used to get frustrated, but I can only change my behavior.... I can't change theirs. Saying no to treats is hard, especially on night shift. I used to work a lot of nights and overnights, so I understand. That's also when my weight ballooned to 301.... I don't think it was a coincidence!
  • tjfrisque
    tjfrisque Posts: 267 Member
    I work a 12hr swing shift and most days will only eat what I bring in and when it's gone it's gone. There have been a few times (usually around that time of the month) when I'll cave and eat a treat if it's offered.
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  • mommyRN0811
    mommyRN0811 Posts: 29 Member
    Are you working days or nights. I have done both. It makes a huge difference. When I worked nights I just brought lots of healthy snacks because I just wanted to snack all night to stay awake I think. During the day I suggest eating before you go to work with protein. Just make sure to bring things that are filling so you don't feel like eating every snack in the break room.

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