I think one thing that has really helped me is the realization that binge eating was really more self-punishment than self-help. I wouldn't allow anyone else to abuse me or force feed me, so why was I doing it to myself? This is a tough situation because on the one hand you need to allow yourself some time to grieve the loss of the relationship, but on the other hand this is the best time to recommit to yourself. When I was single and lonely I bought myself a promise ring to remind myself that I am worthwhile and lovable even when I'm alone. It was my promise to myself. Focus on reclaiming yourself and on your relationship with your son, and the rest should fall into place.

Big hugs and....respect! Don't you realise what an awesome job you are already doing??? Single mum to a 5 year old! !! Hey, that's no mean feat in itself!

May I suggest that you play, really play with your five-year-old? Having a fun loving human like that is pure gold. If you can play with your child enough to get one of those awesome belly laughs from him/her, I bet you will start to feel better!

More fat! I was addicted to crunch--ate potato chips by the bag. (Changed that to pork skins, no carbs.) But now I can walk the aisles in the stores and not even consider chips or candy.

I am at that point where I lose most of my appetite, so many days I need to push proteins. I use chocolate whey powder mixed with Silk almond milk and a few ice cubes. Run in the blender to chop the ice--until the stuff thickens. Not really decadent but reminds me of the soft chocolate "frostie" I used to get at Wendys.

Find a hobby you can do at night when you're staring at the wall. If my hands are busy, my mind is occupied and I don't miss eating. Really didn't want the food, just the "company."

Some amazing responses...and I feel your pain. My long term relationship ended in November and it took a while to snap out of the fog of it. Two things that were mentioned above that I think were true words of wisdom is that the binge eating is self punishment more than it is comfort...and playing/laughing with your child whole heartedly will help refocus your cravings (and sadness). When I read those I was like "YES!"

You seem to have a lot on your plate and sounds like a great head on your shoulders to take it all in stride. Celebrate yourself and the good things you have. Spend time with people that make you happy and smile. Put things in your body that will nourish you and make you feel good...not guilty. Try to plan for the emotional cravings and have a substitute ready. (muffins in a minute are my cake craving substitute now...with a cream cheese frosting, mmm! pork rinds & avocado are my chip replacement)

You can do this and you are worth it! It's time to make yourself a priority and do things to make you feel good. Mani/pedi, soaks in the tub with epsom salts and lavender oil, journal your emotions, have art days with your child...even coloring in a book can be soothing...but take the time to be good to yourself and heal.

I would also recommend some physical activity. Like, put on some music and dance for 5 minutes once every hour, then go back to your assignment. This will release feel good hormones, it's good for you, you are getting some exercise, and it may help you to concentrate.

I can only echo what so many wise people have already said....and love the part about spending time with your 5 year old (mine is 6 and best sound in the world is his belly laugh!)....and if things still feel rough tomorrow, or any time, come on to this forum because as I am sure you are realizing - we are friendly and supportive

One of my downfalls when struggling with ketosis was all the "sweet" fat bombs.... it helped meet a fat macro goal, but it just fired up my brain for wanting carbs (i.e. real sugar). I had to avoid the keto-style treats, they sent my cravings through the roof and made everything more of a struggle.