what do you do when life and stress sabotage you?

I've been doing really well excersising and  losing weight for about a ayear on cc. I found out about 6 months ago my moms dying of melenoma. I've moved myself and 2 small children to be near her to help care fore her and just be around. I thought for sure my appitite would be wiped out but its quite the opposite. I gather its emotional eating but I can't seem to stop. Any ideas to stop the binge cycle would be appreciated.

I'm so sorry to hear about your Mom. You are obviously the type of daughter any mother would be proud to claim!

I understand stress eating, I battle that monster myself. Try to identify the times when it's the worst. Maybe you could anticipate the feeling coming on and remove yourself from all temptation? OR, what about a container of fresh veggies all cut up and ready to go in the fridge with a big label that says "in times of stress break seal?"

When I feel the most stressed out I try to take a walk. Perhaps not the easiest thing to do with 2 little ones, but they are portable so maybe take them with you.

hang in there...I think that good people sometimes experience the most stress bc we care the most.

take care...

I struggle with the same thing.  I've started to realize the extent of my emotional eating this year.  The way I describe it to friends is that it feels like added stress seems to sabotage any discipline that I had worked so hard for with my eating.  It seems to remove the "moderation" thinking.  So a couple of small ideas are keeping thinking "self-control" and "moderation".  Do I really need this?  I try to think about how there are more joys to life than food.  But then I do have a few healthier treats to make it, like for me I like sweets, so I may get a dark chocolate bar or make sugar-free pudding with fruit on it.  (This seems to help my intense sweet craving).  I also will get angry/frustrated in my mind about everything going on, and then I sort of calm down in my mind and think about how it will be okay and I can make it through the day without overeating.  I also try to find another fulfilling stress buster like a good book or a good tv show.

I'm also very sorry to hear about your mother.  :(  I love my mother a lot and would experience great sadness and struggle.

You have worked hard.  Do your best to keep perspective and give yourself small treats (rather than large).  Stay in close touch with your supports - close friends.  Take care of yourself.  To have a relationship with your mother and also your two children are such a blessing in your life.

I'm very sorry to hear about your mom and I understand stress eating as I'm guilty of it myself. I've found exercise really helps my stress & emotions. If you can get away (I know you said you have 2 kids) than go take a walk or even take your kids for a walk. I think any form of activity can help a person clear their head/thoughts. It also helps you get away from the temptation of binge eating and hopefully when you're done you won't be thinking about eating.

Unfortunately its also a matter of dealing with your emotions not just with the stress but your emotional attachment to food. You will know when your body is actually hungry as opposed to when you're just eating beause you're stressed. And if you really think it'll make you feel better than stick with healthier options like fruits, veggies, etc.

 

thank you for the support and replies Ill definitly keep them in mind

think of an emotional retreat for yourself besides food, like luxurious hot baths, your favorite music, an amazing book, facials, etc.

if you have time to overeat you have time to take care of yourself at least a little.

good luck. you and your family will be in my thoughts.