How to kick a fast food addiction?

Ok...so I think I've kicked my soda habit as it's been almost a month and I don't crave it...so that's something to be happy about! But I believe I'm seriously addicted to fast food. I did good for about two weeks but one little slip has turned into a downward spiral. I'm trying not to lose focus and keep on going but this is a cycle I'm desperately trying to kick. How do I get past this addiction? Help!!
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Replies

  • wheird
    wheird Posts: 7,963 Member
    Not, sure, I did the opposite and embraced fast food. Now I am losing weight like crazy.
  • Phoenix_Warrior
    Phoenix_Warrior Posts: 1,633 Member
    Moderation, maybe? I still eat fast food once or twice a week. Some people rat it every day and are successful in health and weight loss. It's all about balance. Maybe find some things on the menu lower calories than usual? Like, I really enjoy the grilled Mcwraps from McDonald's.
  • skullshank
    skullshank Posts: 4,323 Member
    Not, sure, I did the opposite and embraced fast food. Now I am losing weight like crazy.

    this.

    why kick it at all?
    for me, that leads to misery and lots of crying.
    if i feel like i want fast food, i just make it fit into my day. *shrug*

    try it! :flowerforyou:
  • GiveMeCoffee
    GiveMeCoffee Posts: 3,556 Member
    Once a week fast food gives me an easy dinner and a cleansing all in one.... especially white castle or sonic chili dogs. Kind of like a 2 for 1 deal. Good luck though
  • Francl27
    Francl27 Posts: 26,371 Member
    Make better choices at the fast food place? It's what I did... then I figured I could make the same thing at home, but more filling and tastier.
  • DannehBoyy
    DannehBoyy Posts: 546 Member
    I still eat fast food sometimes, just don't over do it :)
  • shrinkingshreya
    shrinkingshreya Posts: 118 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.
  • hello_momo
    hello_momo Posts: 13 Member
    moderation.. portion control.. i know sometimes it's hard to fit it into the daily cals since most items are like 500+ cals. if i'm craving something i'll get the smallest size or only eat half the normal portion. like literally give the other half away immediately or toss it. LOL.. if i try to cut it out completely i know i'll binge. but i have noticed that the less i indulge, the less i crave it.
  • hello_momo
    hello_momo Posts: 13 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.

    yes, and tacos at home taste SO much better!
  • BusyRaeNOTBusty
    BusyRaeNOTBusty Posts: 7,166 Member
    I really wish people wouldn't use the word "addiction" so lightly. I really doubt you are addicted to fast food. Sure you make like it, you may crave it, but you are not addicted to it.
  • skullshank
    skullshank Posts: 4,323 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.

    meat
    lettuce
    tomato
    sour cream
    taco shell
    shredded cheese

    i dont get it...whats unhealthy?
  • shrinkingshreya
    shrinkingshreya Posts: 118 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.

    meat
    lettuce
    tomato
    sour cream
    taco shell
    shredded cheese

    i dont get it...whats unhealthy?

    Well for starters Taco Bell has a ridiculously high sodium count because all of the ingredients are pre-packaged and come in bags--- look behind the counter when they are refilling there vats.
  • scronen
    scronen Posts: 98 Member
    I really wish people wouldn't use the word "addiction" so lightly. I really doubt you are addicted to fast food. Sure you make like it, you may crave it, but you are not addicted to it.

    I asked for help/suggestions...not criticism.
  • qtgonewild
    qtgonewild Posts: 1,930 Member
    just.stop.going.

    COOK
    Cook
    and
    cook some more.
  • wheird
    wheird Posts: 7,963 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.

    meat
    lettuce
    tomato
    sour cream
    taco shell
    shredded cheese

    i dont get it...whats unhealthy?

    Well for starters Taco Bell has a ridiculously high sodium count because all of the ingredients are pre-packaged and come in bags--- look behind the counter when they are refilling there vats.

    Um. What is wrong with high sodium? And what does a bag have to do with sodium?

    Most of the sodium would be from the meat.

    Also, just because you spit out the word "vats" does not make it OHNOES status.
  • ninerbuff
    ninerbuff Posts: 48,984 Member
    I really wish people wouldn't use the word "addiction" so lightly. I really doubt you are addicted to fast food. Sure you make like it, you may crave it, but you are not addicted to it.
    THIS.

    A true addict would take high risks to fulfill their addictions including stealing, robbery, using dirty needles, squandering assets, and endanger their/family health.

    Would you eat fast food after I sprinkled dog poo on it? If yes, then maybe your are addicted.

    A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
    IDEA Fitness member
    Kickboxing Certified Instructor
    Been in fitness industry for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition
  • wheird
    wheird Posts: 7,963 Member
    I really wish people wouldn't use the word "addiction" so lightly. I really doubt you are addicted to fast food. Sure you make like it, you may crave it, but you are not addicted to it.

    I asked for help/suggestions...not criticism.

    My suggestion is that it need not be avoided and you can easily make it part of a healthy diet if you are prudent with your choices.
  • mattgrenier9
    mattgrenier9 Posts: 49 Member
    Honestly fast food is not the greatest for you but don't make yourself suffer by not eating it, we all have cravings and it is normal to indulge your cravings every once in a while, just don't over due it! Also congrats on giving up soda! I seriously believe soda is what made me an overweight child because I drank it like it was water
  • ninerbuff
    ninerbuff Posts: 48,984 Member
    I really wish people wouldn't use the word "addiction" so lightly. I really doubt you are addicted to fast food. Sure you make like it, you may crave it, but you are not addicted to it.

    I asked for help/suggestions...not criticism.
    It's not a criticism. You have a habitual craving for it. Habits can be changed, addictions are usually forever.

    Let me just say, that there isn't any "evil" food out there. Totally shutting it out of your diet will likely make you crave it more if you like it. Take the approach of "fitting" a little in your diet when you want some.

    A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
    IDEA Fitness member
    Kickboxing Certified Instructor
    Been in fitness industry for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition
  • scronen
    scronen Posts: 98 Member
    Omg...sorry for putting myself out there and asking for help. Sorry for using the word "addiction". I won't let it happen again.
  • shrinkingshreya
    shrinkingshreya Posts: 118 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.

    meat
    lettuce
    tomato
    sour cream
    taco shell
    shredded cheese

    i dont get it...whats unhealthy?

    Well for starters Taco Bell has a ridiculously high sodium count because all of the ingredients are pre-packaged and come in bags--- look behind the counter when they are refilling there vats.

    Um. What is wrong with high sodium? And what does a bag have to do with sodium?

    Most of the sodium would be from the meat.

    Also, just because you spit out the word "vats" does not make it OHNOES status.

    Oh I don't know, high sodium is linked to high blood pressure, stomach cancer, problems with your kidneys to name a few. Two Bean Burrito's at Taco bell is over 2000 grams of Sodium, if she has a problem with fast food eating this excess could be a problem hence why I said making it at home or limiting it could be useful I said vat because it's funny, someone needs to relax, I'm trying to help and your snarkiness is incredibly dull.
  • mattgrenier9
    mattgrenier9 Posts: 49 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.
    Homemade Tacos are not only healthier but a lot cheaper, taco bell is not as cheap as it used to be especially when you have to feed more than yourself
  • navyrigger46
    navyrigger46 Posts: 1,301 Member
    Make better choices at the fast food place? It's what I did... then I figured I could make the same thing at home, but more filling and tastier.

    This. I can cook anything they can, and better. I still have fast food for dinner every Wednesday because I'm just not near a kitchen that day. That said, I try to get something that's in line with my macros. Lately I have taken a liking to Panda Express' Shanghai steak, teriyaki chicken breast, and steamed veggies. There's no need to completely eliminate anything, just consciously make good choices that fit your calorie needs and macros.

    Rigger
  • BusyRaeNOTBusty
    BusyRaeNOTBusty Posts: 7,166 Member
    I really wish people wouldn't use the word "addiction" so lightly. I really doubt you are addicted to fast food. Sure you make like it, you may crave it, but you are not addicted to it.

    I asked for help/suggestions...not criticism.

    Alright. My suggestion is to admit that you are not really addicted to fast food, that you crave it, that like any craving you must learn to control it. If you want fast food, have it, but make healthier choices off the menu that fit into your calorie budget and contain decent micro and macro nutrients. Pack a lunch, or go to the grocery store on the days you don't want to allow for fast food in your calorie budget.

    Also, this is the internet. You aren't always going to get super nice, rainbow farting unicorn, replies. If you want help, be ready to expect frank, honest, opinions that aren't always sugar coated. And honestly be prepared for downright rudeness and insults (however my original post was not rude or insulting).
  • scronen
    scronen Posts: 98 Member
    I used the wrong damn word...end of story. Trust me...I don't expect rainbows.
  • wheird
    wheird Posts: 7,963 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.

    meat
    lettuce
    tomato
    sour cream
    taco shell
    shredded cheese

    i dont get it...whats unhealthy?

    Well for starters Taco Bell has a ridiculously high sodium count because all of the ingredients are pre-packaged and come in bags--- look behind the counter when they are refilling there vats.

    Um. What is wrong with high sodium? And what does a bag have to do with sodium?

    Most of the sodium would be from the meat.

    Also, just because you spit out the word "vats" does not make it OHNOES status.

    Oh I don't know, high sodium is linked to high blood pressure, stomach cancer, problems with your kidneys to name a few. Two Bean Burrito's at Taco bell is over 2000 grams of Sodium, if she has a problem with fast food eating this excess could be a problem hence why I said making it at home or limiting it could be useful I said vat because it's funny, someone needs to relax, I'm trying to help and your snarkiness is incredibly dull.

    Stomach cancer, really? :huh: And regular exercise helps lower blood pressure. I consume a hell of a lot of sodium and my BP is barely over ideal (and there are genetic factors at play).

    My snarkiness is never dull. This is proof you are an overexaggerator.
  • wheird
    wheird Posts: 7,963 Member
    I used the wrong damn word...end of story. Trust me...I don't expect rainbows.

    You are getting upsey and feeling attacked. Please don't. You have to have thick skin around here, but once you stop taking things personally there is a lot of great information.
  • shrinkingshreya
    shrinkingshreya Posts: 118 Member
    I try to recreate healthy versions of fast foods at home that I like and fit it into my calorie goals. For instance I used to be obsessed with Taco Bell but now I just make Taco's at home so I can portion what I am eating and use healthier ingredients. You can still eat fast food if you want but limit the intake with willpower and planning ahead of time.

    meat
    lettuce
    tomato
    sour cream
    taco shell
    shredded cheese

    i dont get it...whats unhealthy?

    Well for starters Taco Bell has a ridiculously high sodium count because all of the ingredients are pre-packaged and come in bags--- look behind the counter when they are refilling there vats.

    Um. What is wrong with high sodium? And what does a bag have to do with sodium?

    Most of the sodium would be from the meat.

    Also, just because you spit out the word "vats" does not make it OHNOES status.

    Oh I don't know, high sodium is linked to high blood pressure, stomach cancer, problems with your kidneys to name a few. Two Bean Burrito's at Taco bell is over 2000 grams of Sodium, if she has a problem with fast food eating this excess could be a problem hence why I said making it at home or limiting it could be useful I said vat because it's funny, someone needs to relax, I'm trying to help and your snarkiness is incredibly dull.

    Stomach cancer, really? :huh: And regular exercise helps lower blood pressure. I consume a hell of a lot of sodium and my BP is barely over ideal (and there are genetic factors at play).

    My snarkiness is never dull. This is proof you are an overexaggerator.

    Just because eating a diet filled with sodium has worked for you doesn't mean you should promote it for everyone, particularly someone who has a problem consuming large amounts of fast food. I'm not going to waste my time quoting medical journals that show how a high sodium diet could negatively impact someone's health. Why don't you quit making low jab's at people behind and your computer and be more useful with your advice.
  • scronen
    scronen Posts: 98 Member
    I used the wrong damn word...end of story. Trust me...I don't expect rainbows.

    You are getting upsey and feeling attacked. Please don't. You have to have thick skin around here, but once you stop taking things personally there is a lot of great information.

    I don't have a right to get upset? Im glad to get suggestions and help.


    But come on...I used the word addiction which seemed to make some people butt hurt.
    I see the great information...I do.
  • cwolfman13
    cwolfman13 Posts: 41,865 Member
    just start cooking your own homemade meals and you will soon realize that fast food pretty much tastes like a horses *kitten*...or what I believe a horses *kitten* would taste like.

    I had Wendy's last August on a road trip and it pretty much ruined me for a couple of days...I hadn't had fast food in 9 months prior and I don't think I'll ever have it again.

    Either that or come to terms with the fact that it is entirely possible to include fast food in an otherwise balanced and nutritious diet and still lose weight and be healthy. I may not eat fast food, but I can tell you right now, I eat pizza...I eat polish sausages and bratts...I eat full fat burgers I make at home on my grill...I eat ice cream and I drink soda on occasion...it's about learning moderation and portion control. For me, the fast food just wasn't worth it...it tastes like poop and then makes you poop...

    Edit: also, the word addiction gets thrown around pretty willy nilly...everything is a frackin' addiction rather than a lack of self control or whatever...and I don't think people realize that there are people on here who've actually suffered true addictions...and it's just kind of a slap in the face to compare cravings to McDonalds and the like to being addicted to drugs.

    Don't take it personally...I can get pretty bent out of shape about it from time to time because I'm one of those people but I try to maintain a level head because I know people are just trying to describe their food issues...but sometimes you just see addiction, addiction, addiction, being thrown around so much it just makes your top blow.