Stopped drinking and now binging

cherylcone69
cherylcone69 Posts: 4 Member
edited November 2024 in Getting Started
Ive gained 12lb in the month i stopped drinking. As a teen i used to binge. Its like one addiction replacing the other. Any positive experiences or wisdom that can help me break this cycle of compulsive self-destruction? TIA

Replies

  • born_of_fire74
    born_of_fire74 Posts: 776 Member
    edited June 2018
    Finding low or zero calorie things to snack on won't solve your binging issue but could help with the weight gain. Sugar free Jello helped me a ton when I was first getting started because I could basically eat as much as I wanted with little to no consequence. As time progressed, I got a better idea of what foods keep me feeling full so I no longer have to rely on low/zero calorie snacks to satisfy my hunger when I'm out of calories (since I am rarely feeling hungry due to better satiation). This might work for you like it did for me but it's prolly best to seek professional counseling to address your disordered eating habits as well.
  • buzzlebug
    buzzlebug Posts: 2 Member
    EVERYTHING is a habit. You need to jump the first hurdle i.e. deal with cravings for a minimum of 3 days, at which point it will get a little easier for you.
    Switch your current snacks to low calorie things such as raw vegetables, or small amounts of fruit. That way you're always getting nutrients that contribute toward your metabolic & overall health.
    Once you're accustomed to that it will no longer be a problem.
    Be sure to drink plenty of water. Include other low sugar drinks for variety; (coconut water, herbal teas etc).
    Good luck.
  • cmriverside
    cmriverside Posts: 34,458 Member
    I'd say get into a recovery program like AA or OA. They both address the underlying dysfunctional thinking that leads to compulsive behavior.

    There are addiction forums, too. Maybe take a look at one.
  • cherylcone69
    cherylcone69 Posts: 4 Member
    I am in a recovery prog and i sort of know why i drank but i still dont know why i overate. I was obese in childhood.
  • cherylcone69
    cherylcone69 Posts: 4 Member
    Forgot to say thank you allfor taking the time to answer i appreciate it.
  • cmriverside
    cmriverside Posts: 34,458 Member
    edited June 2018
    cherylcone69 wrote: »
    I am in a recovery prog and i sort of know why i drank but i still dont know why i overate. I was obese in childhood.

    I think you'll find they are related. ((hug))

    I found that it wasn't so much one particular cause as much as it was my lack of life-tools to cope with things as they come up. Whatever recovery program you are using, apply the same tools to your eating as you do to your drinking.

    It's really common for people to switch addictions, and using food to soothe emotions is a classic switch. With that said, If you were drinking heavily, you are/were likely malnourished so give yourself and your body some time to replenish. Over eating (as long as it's balanced nutrition) is often necessary for a few months to rebalance hormones and neurotransmitters.

    You'll figure it out. Be open honest and willing. :)
  • mkculs
    mkculs Posts: 316 Member
    Talk with a professional if you can. Find a free group like AA or OA if you cannot. Most importantly, congratulations. Remember that while being overweight is no fun, it is still better than all the risks of over drinking. And when you are truly ready to be fully healthy, you will challenge yourself to control your weight and find an exercise you love.
  • cherylcone69
    cherylcone69 Posts: 4 Member
    Thank you so much for your kindness and wise words. Im touched by your helpfulness to a complete stranger. Best of luck to you all.
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