Correcting bad eating habits

We eat not only for nourishment, but also as part of our social interactions. However, many people develop unhealthy habits that encourage overeating. So again, you have to change your lifestyle after WLS. Here are a few examples of bad eating habits that you should try to avoid:

Mixing food and entertainment

It’s easy to mindlessly eat a tub of popcorn, a whole bag of chips, or a carton of ice cream while you’re watching TV. Make eating a separate activity, and you’ll consume less. I was advised by my doctors that I should dedicate 30 minutes to eat each meal. This strictly means concentrating 100% on eating, nothing else. I had to learn to put away the newspaper, and turn of the TV, and focus on my spoon fork and knife, for 30 minutes. I know it sounds ridiculous, and believe me, it feels very stupid in real life! But, it is one of the best tricks I have to not overeat. You have to train yourself.

Eating to relieve stress

There’s nothing wrong with taking pleasure from eating, but try not to use food as your primary stress reliever. Find other ways to dissipate stress (such as exercising, listening to music, or meditating) before eating. For me, going to the gym is the best relieve I have found so far. It works great with me because I see my body burning away fat, I feel my muscles work.

Eating on the run

With the abundant availability of convenience foods, it’s easy to grab something from a vending machine and eat your meals in your car. But try not to make this a regular daily habit. Plan your schedule to include enough time to prepare and eat your meals in a quiet place, without the rush.

If you continuously have trouble controlling what you eat, realize that correction of your eating problems may be beyond your own abilities. Consult a psychologist or weight loss professional for additional help. I had to do this many times. I am considered smart and intelligent, and I am well educated and I know what a candy bar can do your body. But, there are other factors within you, that you just can’t control, and expert help is the only way.

Comments

[Becky]

I have gastric bypass,
I had lost 100 lbs I have
gained 20 lbs back and I can get about as much as I used too, but one thing I hae been doing alot of lately is chewing on ice cubes. Is eating ice a no no?