Weight Watcher VS MFP - Prior History of Eating Disorder

kelly_annXX
kelly_annXX Posts: 3
in Health and Weight Loss
Hey all,

So I've had a long history with MFP along with multiple other sites for calorie counting, but also body shaming. I developed Anorexia when I was about 13 years old which then flip flopped back and forth into Builimia. I left HS in May 2010 to get treatment. I was in partial treatment the rest of high school until I graduated June 2011. My first two years of college I was on my own, and it was not a great time.

I started seeing a therapist again, but because I'm in recovery and avoiding behaviors, I have put on a lot of weight. I'm in a much better position now, but I also worry about tedious calorie counting since that was such a dark time and I don't want to be triggered.

I was wondering if anyone could give me their advice on WW vs MFP. I was thinking WW may be less triggering, because it's a point system instead of spending time looking at the calories, fat, carb, and protein constantly. WW is also something new. I was thinking maybe give WW a chance and if I don't like it just try this out?

Thank you!

Replies

  • Branstin
    Branstin Posts: 2,320 Member
    Have you discuss this with your therapist? I think it would be a good place to start.
  • kelleybean1
    kelleybean1 Posts: 312 Member
    I agree with the above post. Talk it over with your therapist. Also, how tall are you what do you weigh, and what is your goal? Are they within the "normal" parameters?
  • SuperstarDJ
    SuperstarDJ Posts: 442 Member
    To be honest, I don't think either will be helpful. Could you see a dietitian/nutritionist who specialises in ED (it's important that they do)? Then you could leave all the 'counting' up to them, leaving you free to concentrate on your recovery :)
  • Clash1001
    Clash1001 Posts: 85 Member
    I can see how calorie counting could lead to issues for you. My big bugbear with weight watchers is that it doesn't really teach you healthy eating habits or portion control (caveat: in my experience anyway, some people may have had different experiences). Personally, mfp works far better for me.

    I would try and arrange an appointment with a nutritionist rather than going through either route...at least initially. It's fantastic you are recognising potential risks and pitfalls. Mfp can be a great tool, but I agree with branstin, talk it through with your therapist before embarking on any weightloss.

    Good luck xx
  • kelly_annXX
    kelly_annXX Posts: 3
    Yes I have, she wants me to focus on loving my body and myself, which i have been working on. However that doesn't change the fact I'm over-weight. I have brought up to her how I plan on losing weight by eating healthy and exercising, but she didn't want to discuss it basically.

    I called my insurance company asking if I could see a nutritionist, especially with my history, however my insurance does not cover any dietician or nutritionist visits unless my BMI is >40.

    My current weight is in the low 160's and I'm 5'3.5". My first goal is to reach to 140-145lbs. From there I'll see if I can get to 130-135lbs, which is where my weight naturally plateaued at when I was out of treatment for about a year.

    I thought about doing the nutritionist route (and yes it is really important that they've had experience with ED), but there's no way I can afford >$100 for one 30 minute session.

    The reason I thought WW may be better at least initially is it's a different system, I've never used it negatively, and I already have a decent idea of what it means to eat healthy. Usually anything I'm a little unsure of I discuss with my BF and he'll call me out if I'm being too strict with proportions between fat-carb-protein ratios.
  • CCoughenour
    CCoughenour Posts: 10
    I too have suffered from eating disorders
    (bingeing, and bulimia) I never really lost weight but I remember one thing that helped was an "exchange" diet. For example, breakfast was 1 protein exchange, 1 fruit exchange and 1 carbohydrate exchange. Then I had a list of the different exchanges. I could pick and choose and not really worry about calories because the dietitian put together the plan. I would discuss it with your therapist but it helped me to learn portion control and helped with the obsessing.
    On a side note, I'm currently counting (keto diet pkus calorie deficit for insulin and hormone issues ) and I still have a hard time not being excessive. Congratulations on getting help, it's a tough road.
  • Branstin
    Branstin Posts: 2,320 Member
    If your therapist isn't supportive then maybe you should consider interviewing other ones. Have you search your local areas for free counseling services or support groups to join?
  • kelly_annXX
    kelly_annXX Posts: 3
    I just want to give you guys a quick update. I truly appreciate everyone's responses!

    I decided to give WW a go and talked to my therapist about it today. She actually thinks its a great idea as long as I eat all my points that are allotted each day and don't purposely avoid eating the weekly points that I'm allowed as well.

    So far I feel really confident and strong.

    Thanks again for being so helpful! Good luck to everyone :)

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