Eating out of control

[TheSecretEater]

I have namechanged for this as I am very ashamed of myself. Over the last few years I have developed a binge/overeating habit. I am now about four stones overweight and yet I exercise a lot (but not excessively).

I know that I have a problem with food and mentioned this to a dietician I was sent to, but she ignored this. I just cannot stop myself from eating when I am feeling low (which is most days at some point). People who know me say that they can't understand why I am overweight because I am so lively and never eat!

Has anyone successfully managed to get out of this pattern? I have tried various things, such a hypnotherapy, but I miss the feeling of being overfull if that makes sense!

Thanks for listening. I know that this is a minor issue compared to some of the issues on here, but this is impacting my health and happiness.

are you taking any meds?

PS please don't feel shame

I totally understand. You need to tackle the low feelings, then you need to find a very low calorie way of filling your stomach in a warm and satisfying way - Swede and carrot mash with no butter will do it.

Joining weight watchers helped me deal with this to some extent - it taught me where my 'full' switch was, by teaching me portion control.

have you ever tried keeping a food/mood diary?

No, MM, I'm not taking any meds.

CD, I find WW an awful experience I am afraid. My sister took me when I was 13 or so (I was not overweight but she wanted the company!) and I have been back several times since. I know when I am full and keep eating until I am overfull and I think that I am a bit addicted to that feeling. I eat far too much for my quite small size and cannot seem to stop. This morning I have eaten numerous packets opf chocoltae buttons, crisps and lots of bread. I will have to hide the evidence before my DH come shome later...

I have tried a food diary (which was good) but not a mood diary, so that could be a good thing to try, thanks MM.

SE, I have suffered from depression on and off since my DS was born nearly 7 years ago after a serious bout of PND. I had my third DC 3 months ago and since then have been binge eating in a similar way to you and feeling terrible about it. However, I realise that it's a symptom of the depression and that hopefully by increasing my meds I'll be able to get things under control.

Have you discussed your metal health with your GP? It sounds like you would benefit being referred for counselling and/or CBT to help you deal with your issues.

You're not alone in this though

Thanks . I know that has been building up for a long time. I used to be a very up-and-down person, but overeating keeps me on a more even keel.

I have had a very difficult time in many ways over the last few years (DD1 and DD2 both have diabilities and that has led to problems with my DH). I did have some counselling which really helped with the food issue on reflection. I think it is time to go to my GP.

PS: I hope that things get better for you too!