… and, here’s why I ask. Your weight control plan (your diet) shouldn’t be. Does that sound counter-intuitive to weightloss? Hear me out.
For many of us, the reason we find ourselves in the position of having to shed pounds is because we have a preoccupation with food. For a subset of us, that preoccupation is actually classified as an addiction – we crave food, and not in the good way. For others, it’s an outlet for stress. “I know those cupcakes are up there in the fridge … but, I have to get this report done … but, I can’t stop thinking about those cupcakes … okay, I’ll have a cupcake or two, and then I can focus on my report, give it the proper attention it deserves.” Sometimes, whether we realize it or not, certain stressors can trigger our brains to kick into gear and, instead of reaching for the stars, we reach for the fridge.
Another way of looking at it? Food consumes us as we consume, or think about consuming, food. Does that ring true with you? If so, here’s something you need to work on – shifting that thought. Get your mind onto something else, and away from automatically reaching for food. Take up a hobby. Phone a friend. Pay some bills. Here’s a really good idea … hit the gym! Your mind has trained itself to want food when you’re bored or stressed or (fill in the blank.) Your body on the other hand, which uses food for nourishment and sustenance, wants food to run efficiently. You control your mind, and you need to recognize when it’s telling you to “go get some food.” Take a minute to ask yourself: “When did I eat last? Is it really time to eat again?” If it is, then grab something healthy, eat it and get on with your day. If it isn’t, then make a note that your mind is up to its old tricks, and let it know who’s in charge – YOU ARE!
This pattern (a.k.a. habit) will eventually break, and your mind will calm down and stop with all of the, “Hey – let’s eat that” impluses. Breaking this pattern may be difficult at first, but when you start to recognize what’s driving those thoughts and address them – putting yourself FULLY in charge – eating right and healthy will become your new pattern.
And, remember to relax. This weight control journey is about resetting some old switches in the brain so that eating well for your body is the only relationship you have with food. Don’t shift your prior preoccupation with food to a preoccupation with dieting – just relax, start recognizing the signals that you’re receiving from your brain, tell ‘em who’s boss and your body will thank you for it.
I hope you’re all having a great day!
DK
