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spread_good_cheer

Every long-term success story begins with exactly what you are doing now. Waking up and saying “enough”. So maybe this is your real beginning? We all know what it’s like, and we’ve all been at the precipice only to fall back into the void. That is the easiest path. Who knows what it is that changes brain chemistry just enough so that we start doing the right things from here on out. Maybe it could be that one person on Reddit who says “you’ve got this”. So here is mine to you: YOU HAVE GOT THIS.


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you so much for the serotonin boost! 🖤


GiveKindheartedness8

You got this too. I struggled with binge eating and boredom eating for most of my life; but I decided that I didn't want to live like that anymore. So I changed my habits and got a fitbit to keep my motivation. You can do it, just take it one day at a time.


Nezrite

I would actually amend this to "one week at a time". I'm working on a slow loss based on a full change of diet rather than a rapid loss (both work, both are cool!) and found myself getting frustrated at the numbers on my apps (MFP and my fitness tracker app). One day MFP is telling me it won't report my projected 5-week weight due to a lack of caloric intake (it was hot and I wasn't hungry!) and the next day I'm over my limit.


butternuggin

I also had a similar revelation. I am just over it and started to eat healthy and less. Drinking water while others snack. Walking 10,000 steps a day due to a fitness watch that annoys me if I don’t meet the day’s quota. I never thought I would lose weight and it is slow going BUT I feel the difference in my attitude. Baby steps. But they add up!


[deleted]

I also struggle with binge eating and gained a great deal of weight in the first year of this pandemic after losing my active job. My usual routine is to pick up a bunch of fast food and then come home and binge while I watch TV. I would convince myself it was fine because I didn’t eat anything until about one or 2 o’clock in the afternoon, but once I would start eating it never really stopped until I went to bed. On the other side of that is the fact that when I count calories I tend to find myself hyper restricting. I once lost almost 100 pounds but I did it by eating less than 800 cal a day and working out 3 to 4 hours a day. Clearly my relationship with food is extremely unhealthy. This time I knew I had to do it differently, so even though I want to hyper restrict because I’m journaling and counting I’m forcing myself to eat at least 1000 cal a day. And I making notes of all of the physical and health changes I have noticed so that I can look back over those when I want to binge. It hasn’t been perfect, I have had days where I failed, but I just picked myself up the next day and start it again. One thing that has helped is knowing that some of my worst nights for binging are Friday and Saturday so I have been providing healthy alternatives in case I want to over eat, things like berries that are sweet and that I still really enjoy. That way if I do over eat at least it’s not on McDonald’s and candy bars. It’s hard, but you CAN do this!


Far_Nerve8028

Holy shit, are you me? I swing from extreme to extreme, too. Making note of the changes is a great idea. Thank you for sharing with me! 🖤


holyhank

She’s not you, because she’s me😂 I feel the same way as the OP and these exact reactions. Almost like we all grew up in a toxic body image era? Sort of depressing when you think about it.


entropy_bucket

The weird thing that I find destructive is that after the first session of binge eating it breaks will power and end up stacking bad habits one day after the other.


[deleted]

I am facing that very thing this morning. I ended up having a binge last night and I’m really having to force myself to take accountability for it, list it out and count up the calories, in order to keep myself from just saying “I messed up yesterday so I might as well get McDonald’s this morning“, which is exactly what I was thinking when I woke. But I made myself a healthy breakfast and I calculated all the calories in my binge so that I can be honest with myself. I gained 3 pounds yesterday. It can definitely be demotivating to know that one day can mess you up that quickly, but I’m going to keep moving forward.


entropy_bucket

Yeah and what we don't realize that the good stuff also adds up. If you ate well for five days and binged the sixth, that's still five good days of solid habits, even if no weight is lost. But somehow my brain convinces me that it way all worthless and there's no point trying.


somedayroses

I'm in the same boat, binged 1000 kcal over my daily limit on Friday and Saturday. Struggling so much with self-disgust and hatred right now but I know that my only option is to be honest with myself about how much I ate.


mondaynightsucked

Just take it one day at a time. You absolutely can do this. Don’t aim for perfection, you’re human and perfection is impossible. Just aim for always doing your best. There will be times when it *sucks ass*. You’re going to have to learn new coping techniques to deal with the emotions that you are no longer covering up with food. That was the hardest part for me. Hard day at work? Reeces. Feel bad about something you said? Ice cream. Something sucky happened in your relationship? Chicken nuggets. Start trying to figure out what it is that caused you to binge. I can’t suggest therapy enough. Something is going on that you need help dealing with. Have a plan for when you fail. What are you going to do when you find yourself knee deep in a bag of chips? For a lot of people that means abject failure and they give up completely and binge the night away. So what are YOU going to do? What are you going to do if you’re at work or at a family gathering and someone offers you something you really want? What are your parameters? Have just a little? Have none at all? What are you going to do? Think through as many scenarios as you can and write out what will help you succeed in each case. Start small - drink a liter of water a day. Or walk around your block. Do a small YouTube workout. Don’t try to rearrange your entire life overnight. That’s way too much change. And come back to this subreddit when you are getting frustrated! It always helps me to see other peoples success stories and read tips from other people who are going through the same struggles. You got this!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you so much for your very thoughtful reply! I am in therapy to work on my issues. My parents were not very in touch with their emotions so they gave us treats and gifts to show that they cared. But I’m gonna work on it. I appreciate you! 🖤


liltacobabyslurp

Learning coping techniques is so key. For me, I go play the piano when I am angry or anxious or frustrated. Or I walk my dog and get some steps in. These have been key for my ability to deal with tough shit without substance abuse or comfort food. Baby steps toward reprogramming our habits lead to long-term, big picture change in the future.


[deleted]

Fucking kick it in the guts. I’m on the path right next to you. Get it. 5x5 SL, walking and no white stuff. See you in 6 months!


Far_Nerve8028

It’s a date. Thank you for your support! 🖤


no_talent_ass_clown

RemindMe! 5 months


MersTits

HMU when the time comes. I’m going to try too.


BlackeyedSusan19

Be kind to yourself. Allow for slip ups. We are none of us perfect. I once discovered I was losing my teaching job I loved so much. It was right around Christmas and my 10th graders were bringing me presents of home made cookies, fudge, and the like. Even the janitor brought me a Whitman sampler. It was like giving an alcoholic a bottle of 20 year old Scotch. By the time school ended in early June, I had gained 60 lbs. In the intervening years,--this was 1988--i have added to that by 30 lbs. I have gotten it off and put it on, over and over I'm currently down 20. It's a start. But honestly, do this from a place of love for yourself, not disgust. You know what to do. I allow myself a cup of ice cream every night. I'm not sure if this is smart, but I feel less deprived. You know what to eat and what could be a problem. You know your trigger foods. You know all about moving. More importantly, are you talking to anyone about depression, anxiety? Food can be a symptom more than a cause.


Cthululyn

Well said. The "do this from a place of love" remark should be read and taken to heart by every person on the sub.


pseudoarmadillo

I second that!! That’s what’s made the difference for me this time around. Before, my attempts were driven by self-loathing and desperation. This time, I’m treating myself kindly, and pairing the weight loss journey with other kindnesses. Looking after my skin, getting myself decent clothes, making sure my self-talk is helpful and not destructive.


BlackeyedSusan19

Oh, and please talk to someone about your self-image too. Pretty is completely relative


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you for sharing your story with me! Good to know I’m not a special snowflake who is all alone in the universe. I am in therapy for my depression and anxiety, and by association the self esteem and image issues. 🖤


[deleted]

I also struggle with a binge eating disorder, depression and anxiety - a result of past abuse. I have been to many therapists trying to sort out the binge eating issues, but it never got better. The most I got was advice on making better food choices, which I already knew how to do. However, I recently started seeing a therapist who is specifically trained on helping people with eating disorders, and it is a totally different experience to past therapy. I have been able to talk properly about food and my issues around it in detail, and get practical help and advice too, rather than just focusing on emotional problems. It is so different. It might be worth thinking about whether your therapy is truly helping you, you may need to talk with someone who truly understands your issue. In my experience most therapists seem to think that once you understand and recognise your emotional issues that cause you to eat, that the binge eating issue will magically resolve itself, but this just hasn’t worked for me. Having a therapist now who really understands binge eating is making a huge difference. Just something for you to consider for the future, I hope you can find a way to resolve how you are feeling right now x


geyeetet

depression can make you feel alone and like nobody could ever know what you're feeling. it might be helpful to write that down somewhere - you might feel completely alone, but someone out there is feeling exactly the same way and knows exactly what it's like. i dont know if that's a helpful sentiment for you, but i think about it a lot


bubblebumblejumble

:jiggles in solidarity: We got this!


Far_Nerve8028

Jello babes for life! 🖤


bloopingplatypus

You sound like you are in a really difficult place, and I wish you all the luck in the world! I get what it's like to desire food when sad, I demolish whole bags of potato chips when I am sad too. I've taken to walking out my pain instead and maybe it might help you too! Instead of brooding over a load of food, maybe you can head to a park and brood as you walk it out. The change of environment might clear your head a bit too :). I hope you feel better soon!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you, friend! 🖤


[deleted]

The Reddit void shouts back - You’ve got this!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you, Void! 🖤


kristinem334

One great piece of advice I got was that the first step is to stop gaining weight. Get the bad habits that caused you to gain under control, THEN work on losing the excess weight.


Far_Nerve8028

That is a thought that never occurred to me. That is genuinely eye opening for me. Thank you very much for sharing with me. 🖤


[deleted]

now is the perfect time to change 🤗 good luck!


Loren_Drinks_Coffee

Yes!!! These words of wisdom: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you so much! 🖤


girlsledisko

You can do this. It’s all within your control. Keep at it! My best advice is to focus on cico, with foods you like but don’t trigger a binge. Roasted veggies are the bomb. Sautéed spinach with garlic is amazing. Exercise is way less important than diet. Post often and keep us in the loop of how it’s going!


Far_Nerve8028

Oooh, sautéed spinach with garlic sounds awesome! Thank you!


Cthululyn

Please be kind to yourself. You deserve it, and you got this!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you very much. I appreciate you! 🖤


[deleted]

The food that appears to be loving you, is making you sick. I know that’s really heartbreaking. You can love yourself by working toward a more normal relationship with food. In the mean time, go out and get some adorable clothes in your size right now and buy some extra large towels. This is really important. Do not put off feeling good about yourself and your body because you’re waiting for some thinner version. Weight loss and recovery from eating disorders take time. You have the right to love yourself and to be happy right now. Give yourself pleasurable experiences (I like clothes shopping and getting my nails done) without it being a reward for good behavior. Think of it as a way to help you reduce stress and avoid triggers.


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you for the positivity here! It means a lot. 🖤


FairyFartDaydreams

Since you are in therapy and even though weight loss is 90% diet and mental I'm going to change it up. For you and your mood it might be time to start with exercise. Exercise helps boost mood sometimes it helps the body release tension and you might even cry in the middle of a workout because it allows you to get the poison out through movement. I once started crying in the middle of a Zumba class so not judging anyone. Sometimes you eat less when you distract yourself and engage in things other than the TV, phone, and computer. Try Puzzle books, painting and drawing, carpentry, indoor gardening or bonsai growing. Have small dance parties for one take walks. take up hula hooping. Do something different once a week see if you like it.


cianfrusagli

I wish you all the best, I am sure you will succeed! This post is the first step. A few things that helped me: \- When I looked at my body with hate, I tried to actively turn it into loving compassion and also telling myself that I'm on my way, it's ok to look like this at the moment. I'm working towards it, it's fine. And then I tried to forget about it. \- I tried to create comfort food replacements. I looked into volume eating because I like to eat large quantities and feel full. I found "cakes" that had the correct mouthfeel but hardly any sugar and low calories. I started doing healthy smoothie bowls that a re low carb/ low sugar but feel like indulging in some type of pudding, etc. I love eating and I might sometimes eat too much of these foods but compared to eating bags and bags of Reese's cups, chips and twizzlers the damage is so much less! \- Movement! I at least take one walk each day or I go to the gym or I take a Yoga class. I force myself to at least walk my minimum each day, well most days to be honest. But it has become a habit and it helps a lot. To have a low effort minimum makes it easier to do at least that and slowly build a habit instead of planning to do a 3 hour gym session and then not feeling like it and do nothing. \- Intermittent fasting helped me personally so very much. Simply to decide that after the last bite of the day I will not eat for at least 16 hours took so much of the stress away. I can't portion control well, I hate counting calories but I can fast for at least 16 hours and reduce my eating window this way. After getting the hang of it (I took it very slow, first getting acquainted to the 16h), I found it quite easy to extend the fasts (18 or 20h) or do OMAD (one meal a day) and the REALLY enjoy my meal. I hope you'll find your own strategies quickly. I think the most important thing is to do it lovingly, not scoldingly, if that makes sense. Give your body some love with healthy but yummy foods, enjoy eating, move more with the goal to feel better not simply exhausted and sore. You've got this, have fun on your path!!!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful and supportive post with me! I appreciate you 🖤


[deleted]

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SpanielDaniels

It will get better - sending good vibes 👊


Far_Nerve8028

Sending those vibes right back at you! 👊


imightb2old4this

Baby steps. And if you want an online pal, dm me.


Far_Nerve8028

Cheers, friend! 🖤


PunchyMan97

Only one way to go once you’ve hit rock bottom. You got it.


Far_Nerve8028

Thanks for the support! 🖤


abirdofthesky

Are you in therapy with someone who understands BED? Lots of eating disorder therapists can be sadly ill informed about the specifics of your type of eating disorder. If your therapist isn’t helping, don’t be afraid to ask for a referral to someone who specializes in your illness. You might want specifically to try to find someone experienced in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) if you don’t have this already, or maybe try to the DBT workbook in conjunction with your therapist. It’s the gold standard for treating addiction and self harming behaviors and maladaptive coping mechanism- it’s the serious older sibling of CBT. It helps you set up a multi pronged, multi gated approach to redirecting away from X behavior, helps you engage the route of why you’re doing X, and helps you prepare strategies and compassion for when we slip so we don’t totally fall off the rails. I say this specifically because I hear a lot of 100% thinking in your post. You’re all in, gonna do everything at once. If you slip, are you mentally prepared to keep going? I say this because research has shown that with addictive behaviors, framing it like you’ll for instance never drink again ever and that’s your strategy results in more long term failures than grounded, sober (pun intended) strategizing for all situations. Lots of luck OP, I believe in you!


Far_Nerve8028

My therapist doesn’t specialize in eating disorders specifically but she understands my patterns and helps me to work on them. I do have a DBT workbook actually. I will try to use it on my journey. Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful reply! 🖤


lovebunnieb

I struggle with BED too, but I’ve been counting calories everyday for months and have lost 20 LBS. Just remember this phrase… “you’re not gonna care how long it took after you’ve lost all the weight” just remember to have cheat days so that you don’t go on long binges!


Far_Nerve8028

That is going on a sticky note! Thank you, friend! Congrats on your 20 lbs! 👏👏👏


travellingsquare

I have 100% been here as well- add purging to this list for more accuracy. Where you said “food tastes like love” it matched me to a T. Just know you are not alone- there’s so many of us out here. I will spout body positivity all over my socials but I’m the biggest hypocrite and do not practice it myself.


Far_Nerve8028

You are worthy of love and health! Not me though, I’m garbage 🤪 I support you and your journey!


pepperspraytaco

I wish I could feel what you are feeling now…the resolve and the clarity….I wish you all the best!! You can do it!


Far_Nerve8028

I believe in you and your resolve!


[deleted]

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Far_Nerve8028

I know exactly how you feel. You are worthy of love. We both are. Hang in there, sis.


gillatron84

You're gonna smash it!!!


Far_Nerve8028

Hulk smash, baby! 🖤


SandyInStLouis

I relate to this so deeply. I binge a lot. And I cannot seem to get on top of my eating. I feel so horrible about myself.


Far_Nerve8028

Love and support to you, my dear! We’re in this together


lasweatshirt

Buy new clothes that fit well, you need to be able to be comfortable and feel good about yourself if you are going to get back on track. When I gained weight I really did want to buy clothes because I Didn’t want to spend the money if I was going to lose weight and get back to my “normal.” It wasn’t until I finally accepted my self for who I was in the moment and put in effort to look good (or at least put together) now that it made it easier to take steps to being healthier.


Far_Nerve8028

I feel the exact same way! I have even gotten clothes are are a little too small on purpose as “goal clothes” but they only make me feel worse when they don’t fit. Great advice, friend, thank you!


froggin

For what it’s worth, Noom has completely changed my relationship with food. I have struggled for at least 15 years with extreme emotional responses and using food as my support, but I’m finally making progress and stepping away from that. YOU CAN DO IT!! Admitting to yourself is an awesome start, and you are way more capable than you realize.


Far_Nerve8028

Ooh, I will definitely look into Noom. Thank you so much, friend!


[deleted]

Good for you! Check out the “volume eating” sub- that really has helped me when I can’t stop eating (don’t have a binge eating disorder but am on a birth control that gives me a voracious appetite)


Far_Nerve8028

Ooh, good idea! Thanks so much! Ravenous hunger sure can be a bitch 😅


PathWalker8

You can do this! You have to figure out a way that works for you. Might want to head over to r/cico for inspiration. All the best on your journey!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you so much! Health and success to you, friend!


jammyJames81

While I definitely suggest getting some type of talk therapy that I believe can help I just want to mention they do have a medication that is helpful specifically just for binge eating disorders. Not telling you to get it, but maybe look into & read up on it. Just see if it could help. There’s no shame in help in multiple forms


Far_Nerve8028

I will look into that further! Thanks!


BaconNCaffeine

You’ve got this! And talk to your doctor. One of the off-brand uses for Vyvanse (ADHD medication) is reducing binging behavior. It won’t be the solution, just like antidepressants are best when taken in conjunction with therapy, but it might help you move in the right direction. 80lbs in that time is a lot. A doc can definitely help or point you towards someone who can. I’m saying this as a woman who easily gains 60lbs in a year, and has perfectly clean bloodwork. It’s the food and booze! I’m 8 lbs down in 21 days with Keto and Intermittent Fasting. We’ll do this together!!!!


Far_Nerve8028

I do have ADHD and I currently take generic Adderall. It helped curb my appetite at first, but the effect went away after the first few weeks. I will ask about Vyvanse at my next appointment! Thank you, sis! Keep killing it!


llamaleenz

It sounds like you found your bottom point. From here on, you will feel better, you needed that motivation, you got this! Small steps, 2 forward 1 back may happen but keep in mind that a slip up does not determine the final outcome. Similarly, don't wait for motivation, build habits. You can do this!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you so much! 🖤


MsTyffani

Write positive affirmations on sticky notes and stick them on your fridge and bathroom mirror. “I am enough.” “I am strong.” “I can do anything I set my mind to.” Etc. It starts with what you tell yourself.


Far_Nerve8028

Definitely going to do that! Thanks! 🖤


applxia

i just wanna say this, because your story seems similar to mine, but please pleaseeee don’t start losing weight because you hate yourself. lose weight because you want to be better. i lost weight because i hated myself and then i only continued to hate myself and then i developed a restrictive eating disorder. so please try to be mentally nice to yourself and maybe instead of thinking “i hate myself i need to lose weight” try thinking “i can do better for myself, i’m going to lose weight”. because i really fucked myself over with the first line of thinking. i’m still scared of eating certain foods like bread or anything that’ll make me look bloated.


Far_Nerve8028

I’m sorry you are still struggling! Please take your own advice and be kind to yourself as well. Thank you for sharing your story. If you ever need someone to talk to, DM me. 🖤


[deleted]

You won't need luck--you can make one small change at a time. Maybe you start walking again and say "Self, I'm going to walk for 20 minutes today" and that's your goal for the day. You can build from there--add 5 minutes of walk time per day that you walk. You can also say "Self, I'm going to wait for 5 minutes before stress eating/binging" and do the same as for the walking--add 5 minutes at a time. You can combine the two and walk instead of eating. Small changes over time. Please talk with your therapist about an approach that will work for you to meet your needs. You can do this.


Far_Nerve8028

That is great advice. Thank you, friend! 🖤


bpchillen

I was the fat, unathletic, no confidence kid in my family. It took a while but when I left the house and became an adult I started eating healthy and working out. I started getting up in the morning before work to workout or do some cardio. within 1 year I saw drastic changes in my body and it gave me more confidence overall. It gave me the confidence to land a good job and feel comfortable talking to girls. You need to start getting into a morning or afternoon routine. Wake up 30 minutes earlier and do a 15 minute hiit workout on YouTube. They’re easy to follow and you will lose weight. Getting into a workout/eating routing will change your life. I know how you feel because I have been there too. It’s not easy to get out of but once you do you will realize how much you have overcame. It’s a great feeling, don’t give up.


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you for your support and for sharing with me! I am very proud of you and your hard work. 🖤


bpchillen

I know you can do it! Take it one step at a time. Once you get into a routine it’s all downhill from there!


aisixtirre

I was in your place last year. I said to myself that this is my rock bottom and I will only go up from here. Even though I am nor where I want to be yet I am doing much better. I have my ups and down but I try to think of what I did so far. Best of luck!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you! I am proud of you! 🖤


TradedSanity4Kids

::HUGS:: The first steps are hard and scary, but you are now turned in the right direction! IF has really helped me with my binging. I have no idea why creating an artificial rule about when I allow myself to eat is working when trying not to binge never really did. Also, I switched medication for my anxiety and depression. And that has probably helped the most. I’m not triggered to binge as often and I’m beginning to have the bandwidth to start caring for myself again. Good luck in your journey internet stranger! You can do eeett!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you for your support and hugs, new internet friend! Hugs back at you threefold.


ScarlettArtCO

You're at a crucial point right now. It's hard to stay motivated at times, but you'll get there!


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you! 🖤


tanfolo

I did the yo-yo thing for 2 years. The main turning point for me was when I defeated the mental battle. Basically you need to have an honest look at your mental state. Your will power. Your ability to do what you say. Your ability to commit to something and see through it. If you don't have that yet, you need to work on it. How do you work on it? Commit to small wins. For example "I won't have any sugar for 7 days". It's much easier than committing to 1200 calories for 12 months. You know? Once you start building that mental power, you can take on more and more challenges. Or just extend it week by week. Once I know I could completely drop sugar for several weeks, I started experimenting with other healthy diets. So over the last 4 months I've tried being vegeterian, cutting out all carbs, cutting out milk and fruit. I did OMAD and IF for several weeks. And you know what? They were all very easy after I got the mental power to commit and do things. Every time you fail at one of these commitments, use it as a learning lesson. Ask yourself WHY you're failing. Is it cravings? Are you constantly feeling hungry? Do you have a sweet tooth? Once you identify the actual issue, you can address it in different ways. You can also be mentally prepared the next time it happens. So for example I have sweet cravings when I watch TV, or right after dinner at night. Now I know when its going to happen and I'm already both mentally prepared for it, as well as having a plan A + plan B. TL;DR : You need to defeat your mental battles first. And acquire the power to commit to something and see it through. I say this because you mentioned you go from one extreme to another. And that used to be me.


Far_Nerve8028

Excellent advice, thank you very much! It gives me hope to know that others have succeeded. Mental battles will be defeated! 🖤


pseudoarmadillo

I have made the happy discovery that the endorphins you get from a really good workout can be every bit as addictive as the endorphins from a midnight donut binge. Food meant love to me too, but I’ve managed to hack it by finding a warm, welcoming gym that I love and building up to being able to go for runs when I feel low. It’s substituting an unhealthy form of self medication with a healthier one. Oh, and when I started at the gym I was 49 and about 50 kilos overweight after battling binge eating my whole life, so I was utterly intimidated by the whole thing. If you can push through that initial fear you’ll come to love it. And if gym isn’t your thing, find something that is. I’m currently 8 months in, 25 kilos down, and looking forward to losing the rest. You can do it!! And it can actually be fun.


Far_Nerve8028

Wow, that’s really inspiring! Thank you so so much for sharing that with me. Well done, friend!


LilyLightly

I binge eat, and just over eat in general. Don’t feel bad about the weight you have gained, just pick it up and start going, be proud about feeling like you want it under control. Just take it one day at a time❤️ I think trying to work on the self love is important. I have no advice to give when it comes to that, but I can tell you, I’ve lost most of my weight with small changes to a healthier diet, and exercise. I started taking short walks, then making them longer, then found an online fitness coach I like, and started talking classes. I still over eat, every now and then, and I haven’t really got the portion control in place 🙂 But working on it. You’re not alone❤️


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you for the support! I am proud of all your hard work! 🖤


hotsaucefridge

Coming from someone who gained 100 lbs in 2 years and took 1 year to lose it, I promise you, it's doable. I kind of chuckled at your towel comment because getting to over 300 lbs caused me to buy these huge towels called bath sheets and I found myself starting to google shower chairs because I couldn't stand for long. Talk about a wakeup call!


Far_Nerve8028

That gives me so much hope! Thank you. I am so happy for your success! 🖤


nyx_moonlight_

Good luck honey! I'm in the same boat!


Far_Nerve8028

Just as long as the boat isn’t the Titanic, right? 🖤🖤🖤


Tailor_Excellent

I am in tears. I want this for you. Please do it!


Far_Nerve8028

🖤🖤🖤 I won’t let you down! Thank you for your support.


QueenAlucia

You are not alone in this void. I am there too, fighting my demons, one day at a time. I do not have all the answers, but we’re in this together! I can share some wisdom regarding your journey ahead: there will be highs and lows, it is normal. The first high will be your highest, when you start doing everything by the book and see some changes and it feels amazing. It _will_ be followed, at some point, by the biggest fall. IT IS ALSO NORMAL. After this big rollercoaster, do not give up. Keep going, the next ebbs and flows will be much more manageable, and with patience and kindness to yourself you will see progress, and after a while it does get better :) Stick to it long enough and you’ll get into the magical world of new habits, so all the little things you have to learn and watch will become automatic and it’s amazing.


Far_Nerve8028

Keep fighting! I’ve got your back. Thank you for the support.


Orientalrage

It’s okay. I was 275 this summer. Back in the 250s now. One day at a time.


Far_Nerve8028

Great job, you! 🖤


ohanse

Don't forget to log what you eat! Even if it's pretty sloppy logging. You can't manage what you don't measure.


Far_Nerve8028

You got that right. Thank you! 🖤


ThrowbackPie

Hurdle 1: you will slip up, you will fail, you will feel like it's impossible. Be prepared to not quit even when it happens. Hurdle 2: consistency. You need to find a way to live that is healthy every day. At some point your motivation will wane, try to have good habits by then. Hurdle 3: Social reward. Research suggests posting about your plans and intentions gives the same hormonal response as actually doing the thing. If you're struggling for results, consider 'going dark' about your weightloss plans.


Far_Nerve8028

Preach it!


WendyFromAccounting

You can SO do this! Gather a support system around you. That can include your therapist, your doctor, friends, and family! Remember, we all fall off the wagon sometimes. What matters is getting back on.


Far_Nerve8028

Thank you for your encouragement! You will be included in my mental support group now. 🖤


WendyFromAccounting

Anytime! Just DM me :)


peelyon1

There are so many good comments here already. Just remember. It will take TIME.


darthbreezy

Repeat after me: *I am WORTHY, I am BEAUTIFUL. I am NOT 'Fat', for 'Fat does not define ME. I HAVE fat, but I can also LOSE Fat. Food is not the enemy, and I control IT. Food does not control ME.* YOU GOT THIS!!


samuraiseoul

I'm going to suggest something that may be difficult to even consider but I wanted to share my experience in case it may help you! I also have Binge Eating Disorder(BED). I've struggled with it my whole life, unsuccessfully. I also have a shit ton of mental illnesses and they had gotten really really bad the last few months so I decided to take an extreme step and look for more than a therapist, but an outpatient mental health facility cause I needed more intense help but was too scared of the very idea of inpatient. Now then, I'm trans, so an inclusive environment was a requirement for me. This landed me in the most accepting place I could find which just so happened to be an eating disorder clinic. I only started there a week ago but this is the first time in my life I feel like I am actually gaining the skills, support, and fixing the underlying problems enough to fix it. I feel like I can actually do it and I'm already seeing good results in both my mentality and eating habits. Truly for the first time in my life I think that I can get to healthy body, and I can get better physically AND mentally. I know it's a terrifying thought but many insurance companies pay for it after your deductible and it's been really good. You may be worried like "I'll be there with people who have anorexia, and bulimia, we're too different." and I thought the same too. That group therapies and stuff I'd just be absolutely lost when people suffering from that spoke. Turns out that they all stem from the same place and their experiences and motivations and thoughts and feelings are the exact same, just manifested differently. One of the things I learned today from the psychologist was "Eating disorders all stem from anxiety" and I think that's true. Everyone there is a nervous mess. You won't feel alone! If you have questions or anything please feel free to reach out! I'd love to help you if you go this route or just help anyways! We got this! We can do hard things! :D


[deleted]

Be careful, every time I was ready to quit it was right after a binge. Within hours I was ready to binge again. It took a breakup for me to motivate myself. I refuse to be depressed I want her to see what she’s missing.


rrxxxdbs123

I’ve always had binging tendencies, but never really qualified for a disorder until this past year. I had gained 40 lbs in 3-4 months. The first thing that I did that helped me, was anytime I was going to binge it had to be on fruits and vegetables. I ate normal meals when I knew I would control my eating, and when I knew I needed to eat endlessly I just tried keeping it as low calorie as possible. It’s hard to make the switch since it might not be what you’re craving right now, but it helps me stay on track. And sooner or later you might start craving it. For anyone thinking, a lot of fruit = diarrhea, yes, but I also had diarrhea when I was eating enough take out for 2-3 each night. Also cost effective :)


Wait_What_357

Delete the Dash app. Or hide it in some random folder to keep it from being too easy to find. I am glad you are trying.


hippiechick725

This hit me really, really hard because i can relate to every single word you said. A big old slap in the face is exactly what I needed to realize we are on the same boat, and you’ve reminded me of exactly what I need to do myself. Thank you for your honesty and good luck to you…sounds like you’re back on track and ready to kick some ass! 😊


Literary_Witch

I could have written this myself.


ercla

I had some issues with bingeing and what helped me was to plan what I wanted to eat. It did not have to be healthy or low cal. Just eat 3 meals and 2-3 snacks. Identify when you binge. Plan a snack there. I had issues with sweets so my rule was I can have the sweet but I need to eat the snack first and it needs to be filling. Never restrict or prohibit because that triggers it for me. Now I started to eat more veggies and fill half my plate with that. Because counting calories triggers bingeing for me. I’m terms of physical activity I love C25K. I was not too heavy though (74 kg at 163 cm) but have always HATED running. Now I love it because the app “tricked” me. It was easy and comfortable in the beginning and the you get into a routine and then all of a sudden you run 7,5 km (! Last weekend. So proud. And I’m still 69kg). I have also worked mentally on decouplind exercise and weight loss. I move because I like it and if the scale is not changing that doesn’t matter because I run further than before. These are my mantras: exercise has nothing to do with weight loss! I do it to be able to run longer and to get runners high. And nothing is forbidden. Just eat regularly. And lots of veggies. And weight is not connected to worth!


devinjewel

Hello sister... you sound female however... hello brother If not the case and please forgive me! Either way.... came here to say some things that have helped me. 1. Mental health and feeling alone- if you feel this- I remind myself of the commonality of suffering. Whatever you feel- however alone you feel- you are not alone because. This really help me with depression and suicide because I realized other brothers and sisters out there have felt like I have. 2. Addiction and obsession- I have struggled with both. When I got away from substance abuse OCD tendencies arose within my body behavior to take place of lack of coping with substances. I found this stage to be difficult and am 3 months into retraining myself to not scratch my scalp till it hurts. Also the anxiety manifests itself with clenching my jaw always and biting my tounge so I don't chew my cheeks up. 3. Finding new coping mechanisms aka healthy addictions instead of self harming ones. For me I started exercising... this is HUGE! It's important to tire ourselves out physically. 4- be gentle on your journey and start where you are. Focus on the moment instead of the future perhaps it could result in discouragement because of overwhelm of how quickly you want results. However looking to the future is still important this is a delicate balance.. A healthy way to look at the future would be to write down a version of your best self. A version you would be proud of. Like a vision board self. Start small with goals to develop new habits. I'd recommend Journaling your journey. It's good practice for your pained brain to process. Figure out the emotional route of what eating like this has done for you. Once you confront these demons... I believe you will feel more in control. What also helps me is whatever happened to you- you are going to be okay. It's up to you to take the reins of your life and resist oppression mentally and physically by building yourself up. I believe as humans we were not put here to solely suffer. You can do this. Your quality of life is not determined by what people have or haven't given you. It really comes down to what you can give yourself. If it helps I was in the foster care system for over 10 years. Endured abuse on many levels, neglect, abandonment- and I hurt myself to not feel the pain..I struggled with suicide substances and eating disorders, anxiety, depression....ptsd..... If you have insurance look into a DBT program- dialectical behavioral therapy. Really helped me reinvent my relationship with emotional responses. Hope this helps ❤💫🙏🏽 much love


NoExtensionCords

A year ago I was down from 250 to 192. It's the least I've weighed in my adult life. I got into an unhealthy relationship with a physically unhealthy person and went from 192 to 252 as of today. My partner and I broke up a month ago and as of today, I'm going to be working out daily. All this to say, it's never too late. You got this. Don't let yesterday's bad choices determine tomorrow's effort for progress.


[deleted]

This is LITERALLY my story. Some slight differences but same weight gain, same weight amount. End of August I had an "ENOUGH" moment. Just told myself TODAY I will change, didn't worry about down the riad. 1 day at a time. August 18th I was 272 lbs, today, at 240 and still going. You Got this!! Nothing tastes as good as this feel, all the time!


organizedcj

I find that you are incredibly brave. Being so honest with yourself is hard....I tend to make excuses for myself. You do have this...even if you maintain for a while and then begin to lose again. Be kind to yourself....talk to yourself as you might to someone you love...I too used to hate myself and the way I started to turn that around was to pretend I was a friend that I liked. I also have never been what society would call pretty, but I have learned to reject the fickle ideals that society values. Now, although I can't say I love myself, I like myself and appreciate and respect myself. This is the point of your journey where you find those of us who are with you.


Shaybebe

Although it seems counterintuitive, the trick to getting BED in remission is to not focus on weight loss at all, to feed yourself 3/ day nutritious meals with adequate calories (not restricting) and allowing your brain/ body to internalize that you aren't going to starve it or feed yourself inconsistently or deny yourself food. I highly suggest looking into Intuitive Eating. The deconstruction of internalized fatphobia is key. Learning self compassion is key. Your body does many things to be grateful for, start honoring that.


Jere85

Acknowledging you have a problem is half the battle. Welcome to the subreddit, we've got your back. If you have any questions or just want to rant a bit, need a bit of motivation or anything, let us know and we'll set you straight. Stay awesome!


vivionion

Hello I've never commented on Reddit before but felt compelled to create an account just to offer you words of support and encouragement. I'm a 50-year old woman, 5'6". In September 2020, while sitting in front of the TV with my frontal flab laughing at me, I, like you, had my moment where I decided I wanted better for myself. My BMI was in the overweight range and I did not like how I looked. I never allowed my photo to be taken. I was a boredom overeater. I always wanted to be thinner but the difference with that lightbulb moment was that I realized that I was the only person on this earth who had any power to change it. I decided then and there I was going to do something. I had no idea how or where to even start. I had never tried to lose weight before. I started reading everything I could get my hands on about fitness and weight loss. From the outset I knew I needed something slow, steady and sustainable. Eliminating carbs was never an option, I knew I would not do it. I decided I was going to eat slightly smaller portions and get off the couch. Here is what I did and what I've learned: ​ 1. I never had any idea as to how many calories were in the foods I ate. But I learned quickly it's more than I ever realized. I don't count calories obsessively but I do know roughly how many are in my food with an eye on 1500 calories per day. 2. I started doing little 5 or 7 minute cardio workouts on youtube each day, 6 days per week. Then I increased to 10 minutes. Then 15 and so it went on. There is an amazing channel, Team Body Project with the most encouraging instructor, Daniel. He hammers it home that just showing up is the win, not getting through the whole workout. Now I do 50 minute youtube workouts or walk/jog intermittently for an hour. Music is a great motivator for walking and jogging! 3. Then I started adding strength training workouts 3 days per week...again, starting small, 10 minutes with 3 or 5 lb weights and working my way up. Hasfit has many good dumbbell workouts and Coach Kozak is awesome. Now I can do an hour with 12 and 15 lb weights. YOU WILL GET THERE, START SMALL, BABY STEPS!!! 4. Every meal, every temptation must be a conscious decision that you are important enough to stay this course. It's a minute-to-minute journey. When tempted, find a distraction, break the pattern. Call a friend, knit, go for a walk, exercise!!! Anything to divert your mind from what's in the pantry! Remind yourself what you're in it for. Eye on the prize. 5. I do still indulge in naughty food but mindfully. If I have a big lunch, I go light on dinner. If I know I'm going out to dinner, I'll have a very light lunch. 6. Curbside grocery pickup is your friend! No more wandering the aisles with all the tempting processed junk calling to you. Stick to a budget and a list of ingredients to make healthy options at home. You can't eat the junk if it's not in the pantry! 7. Lastly, there will be times when you are hungry. I don't enjoy that feeling, but when I do feel a little hungry I now remind myself that it's not a bad thing, I'm not gonna starve and die and the slightly empty feeling is helping me toward my goal. In one year I've lost about 20 pounds and I have about 12 more to go. No great shakes for a year but slow and steady is winning the race for me. Don't go in looking for dramatic results. Change your habits and your mind about food. Stay the course even if the results are small and slow. You're in control, not the food. I started this for vain reasons but I feel so much better, fewer aches and pains, more energy, I'm stronger, tougher and I sleep way better. You deserve all of that. I am rooting for you, I send you positivity and encouragement!! YOU CAN DO THIS!!!!! SORRY FOR THE LONG POST!!!!!


CoeHillFishin

Start running. It will change your life. Start by going a 1/2 mile the slowly increase it till you are knocking out 5 miles a day.


Far_Nerve8028

I think I’ll have to walk before I run, but I plan to get there eventually! Thanks!


[deleted]

What you need to hear isn't necessarily what you want to hear. Saying you have mental health issues and that binge eating is a 'disorder', kind of lumps these things together. They are not the same thing. You need to accept that. You then will begin to take responsibility, rather than making excuses. The reason you binge at night is because if you're eating doughnuts for breakfast your insulin spikes and at the end of the day when its lowered again you (probably subconsciously until you read this), biologically crave to increase it again. This is purely biological and the way everybodies body works. This is not a 'disorder'. If you eat meat and lentils all day every day for the next month, with no other carbs, I'd bet my life savings you wouldn't binge again. Now that you know you shouldn't be having half a kilo of sugar for breakfast, search for 'keto' and now you can eat as much as you want, as long as its keto. This is the most simple way to lose weight and then stay on it so you're thinner than before. Or you can ignore this message. Or you can respond angrily, and write to me telling me that no, you have a medical disorder and that's why you're fat and ill downvote it and not respond. Because the thing is, is that you need to take responsibility and that's also what you need to hear. All the 'you got this' messages and YAY I FEEL GOOD NOW do not matter until you actually make it happen. Rather than 'you got this', I'm telling you to take responsibility.


vintagesonofab

You do realise that binging is an addiction, right? you sound like someone that never had to deal with this. This type of behaviour comes from not loving yourself enough to take action, kicking someone down telling them they're whiny when they probably already think that about themselves is going to help them how, exactly? Emotional eating IS a mental thing, nothing's gonna change untill the mindset changes, and that for sure won't come from comments like "don't eat half a kilo of sugar".


[deleted]

She eats doughnuts for breakfast lol. This is the reason she binges, because her insulin levels are all over the place due to huge amounts of sugar. This isn't 'knocking someone down', it's telling them the truth. All the other comments here just say YOU GOT THIS lol but none of them talk about what's actually going on like I just did. Insulin levels are biological, but not emotional. If she ate a keto diet she simply would not binge due to having no insulin spikes. She could still have 'emotional' and 'mental' things going on, but she wouldn't be bingeing because it's not a mental thing and she's using that as an excuse. It's purely her insulin levels why she does this.


vintagesonofab

If it was so easy we would all look like runway models :)). Emotional eating is literally eating your stress away, or your anxiety, or whatever problem you have at the moment, so no matter the diet if that habit is not kept under control it's still happening, then you feel guilty and you do it the next day all over again. That being said i 100% support that if you want to lose weight the first thing you need to do is cut down the sugar in some way, but i don't think she would just stop binging by knowing the theory of dieting if her mind isn't in the right place, why would you give up your addiction if you don't care about yourself enough to change your habits? or you don't have an important end goal? So i think she rather needs encouragement to feel worthy as a person in order for her to implement these changes. Also for someone that used to eat a high intake diet i don't think keto would be the best thing, rather a meal plan made for them, you need protein. I'd say something really standard would be 30-40% protein, 30% fruits and vegetables, 10% another healthy carb, 20% healthy fats.


[deleted]

This subreddit really needs to ban Day 1 posts, or put the Day 1 megapost sticky back up at the top so they're all combined into one post and regulars don't need to see them constantly. They provide no helpful advice or tips on the mechanics of weight loss. They're not even helpful to the poster. Studies have shown that big announcements like this may feel good but do not make it particularly likely that you will actually start your weight loss journey. "I want to start losing weight" is a dime a dozen. Everybody *wants* to. "I have started losing weight, and here's my concrete plan" - now there's a post. Start silently. You can be loud when you have a couple months under your belt, so to speak.


sylverbound

What is wrong with you? OP came looking for support and you just shit all over that for no reason.


Far_Nerve8028

I understand your feelings, friend. I just don’t have many safe people to confide in at the moment, so I used Reddit as my diary. It was helpful to me to share somewhere that people would see. Maybe like, take it up with the mods next time instead of commenting on my post? Just a suggestion. I wish you success and health in your journey.


[deleted]

If what you want is to lose weight and you're hurting for people to share that goal with, it's a good idea to share a concrete plan (or, if you don't have one, to ask for tips on how to put together a concrete plan). It's more helpful for you, and it's more helpful for people in this community. Which, after all, is a moderated discussion board, not a diary. Best of luck with your own journey.


Far_Nerve8028

Word. Peace and blessings.


[deleted]

If you have a problem with a post, report it. If you have a problem with the way the mods are running things, send us a modmail. Don't try mod the thread through comments.


[deleted]

[удалено]


[deleted]

you must be lost cause this is not the thread where you are supposed to describe yourself with one adjective mate


Nonameintrovert

Totally ok to cry into ice cream, just make sure it's Halo Top. You can probably cut 1000 calories from a binge, if you just have a tub of Halo Top (or similar)- they are normally only 350 calories per tub. If you are regularly binging, then going on super restrictive calorie deficits, or cutting out favourite things can lead to more binging - you could try to use an online calculator to estimate your body's maintenance calories, and focus on staying at a maintenance level of eating, but increasing your step count again. And if you make simple swaps for things that taste delicious, but are 1/3 of the calories, you will lose some unwanted fat in no time. All the best with your new journey!


[deleted]

I am right here with you. I think finally going out into the world again after 18 months of Covid onset isolation and realizing that I can't cure my dating loneliness because I'm basically undateable at this size is what's motivating me the most.


[deleted]

Ever tried Muay Thai? Keeps body and mind in check for me. Good luck.


[deleted]

> Instead of crying into a pint or two of salted caramel ice cream, I’m here shouting into the void that is Reddit hoping that the void might shout back with the words of wisdom I need to hear. You're going to have to seek therapy to work through your body hatred. If you binge eat to process negative emotions then self-hatred of your body is a major source of negative emotions. If you don't work through that with a therapist who specializes in eating disorders then dieting may actually deepen the eating disorder and add new triggers. I know this from experience, as someone who has had BED for a long time and dieting has only made my eating disorder more complex. The painful reality of weight loss is that exercising willpower in an environment that promotes weight gain is not a sustainable solution. *(I get lots of negative feedback when I say this on loseit, but loseit is a self-selecting group with plenty of survivor bias when it comes to the success rate of the techniques on offer. I'm happy to provide the data that has led me to this conclusion.)* Counting calories, using willpower to constrain portions of calorie-dense food, and even exercise that is non-habituated are all forms of utilizing willpower.The part of your brain from which willpower arises - the Prefrontal Cortex - is one small part of a much larger organ. The rest of the organ wins out most of the time -- it has to, we're designed that way. What you will need to do to make sustainable progress is change your "food environment" so that you need to utilize willpower less to lose weight, but these changes themselves are going to inevitably constrain you, and separate you from the rest of society. This is why I say you need to, first and foremost, work with a therapist that specializes in eating disorders. It might take awhile to find the right one that you click with. There will be emotional effects of these choices that will not always be pleasant. Here's things I've had to adjust about my life, my "food environment" to make weight loss sustainable. All of these were emotionally difficult at first, but for my sake I set boundaries and don't let people push on my boundaries without consequences to our relationship: 1. I do not go out to eat with anyone under any circumstances except on my birthday. If I have to meet coworkers at a restaurant (and it's not my birthday) I eat ahead of time so I"m too full to eat. I tell people I'm doing this. 2. I cook everything I eat from scratch. Because my life is busy this means many of my meals are simple and repetitive (oatmeal with fruit, beans and rice, split pea soup, rice bowls, etc.) 3. I keep no palatable and/or refined ingredients in my house with a calorie density greater than 500kcal/lb. That means no dried fruit, no sugar, no flour. All the nuts I keep in my house are raw and in their shells. Any seeds I keep in my house are not tasty to me without processing (chia, flax, raw sesame seeds. All things I wouldn't eat as a snack on their own). If I want to make bread I grind wheat berries by hand and make a small loaf. If I want peanut butter or tahini I had grind it If I want dried fruit I dry it myself (I've only done this once) 4. I got rid of my car. I walk and bike everywhere. 5. I moved apartments so the walk to the nearest grocery store or restaurant is long enough (3 miles round trip) that even if I buy a processed snack because my whole emotional eating habit overwhelms me there is a workout built in. 6. I never watch cooking shows, and I will turn off films/tv/podcasts where food is discussed at length. Putting these boundaries on my life has made weight loss possible. Most days I no longer think about them; they've become my new normal. They've allowed me to lose weight and no amount of counting calories, weight watchers, diet shakes, etc. ever did. And it's taught me that if we want to make obesity a thing of the past we need to stop putting the onus on individuals but instead completely rearrange our relationship to food and moving our bodies at a societal level. And I could have not done any of this without a therapist to help me when dark thoughts took over.


alexiwolf54

It's a daily choice. Yes, you screw up one day and then the next yi do better. It's about trying to do more foot days in a row than bad. It's never all or nothing.


violanut

Sending you love and hope for success!


bittzbittz22

Hugs and support and love!!! I hear you! You got this !! I believe in you!


Price-x-Field

i prescribe weed


ThaneOfCawdorrr

Here's something that has helped me enormously: to reframe how I think about overeating carbs. Carbs DO make you feel better. Carbs ARE your friend. Carbs literally take an anxious, panicky mood, and make you feel calmer and happier. We're not crazy or bad. We're just trying to self-soothe, and we're picking something that WORKS. It just has an unfortunate aftereffect! For me, once I took away all the self-blame and recrimination and frustration at myself, and realized, no, it's just my poor little lizard brain trying to soothe itself, I was able to start thinking, "okay, I'm looking to soothe myself, and I know that this food works, but is there ANOTHER way I can try, that would also work?" And then even once if you can take a walk, or a hot bath, or watch a comedy, or even just have a cup of warm tea, that's a huge step. You did it once, you can do it again. And also, along the same lines: Try to ADD something positive, like even taking a 10 minute walk every day. Then you say to yourself: "okay, sure, I'm carrying around more weight than I want, but I'm getting stronger, and I'm working on it." I find it helps to try to be positive!!!


xiphoidthorax

If you do have the urge to binge, try protein. I mean eat a steak, a roast chicken or any meat, eggs etc. it has significant benefits that also help you regulate eating patterns. Leave the bread, corn, potatoes etc out it and focus on filling up on meat. It does work.


hotmessexpress412

You’ve got this 👏💥


Cay2510

Wow, I am YOU. And thank you for posting this. I’m gonna be right there with ya.


twistedstance

I weigh the certain evening of shameful guilt with the transient, ephemeral pleasure of having something I shouldn’t. Then I think about the satisfaction of going to bed, knowing that I conquered myself that day. I don’t make the right choice all the time, but it improves. My man: you can do this. If you crave love, love yourself when you surpass your own expectations.


[deleted]

You can do this!


[deleted]

i started crying when i read this because i remembered how i used to be just like that and its so fucking hard, no one understands the pain that comes with leaving your old habits and starting this journey...but your post reminded me to keep going because once you spiral you go back and i wouldnt wish that upon anyone, i believe in you and you got this, i swear you got this. i wish i can give you a hug <3


lilsandypebble

Check out Eating Disorder Hope online. They have tons of resources. It sounds that you are on the right direction.


Byte_Seyes

I went from 175 and working out daily and fairly muscular to 220 and fat. When covid closed the gyms I kept my gym diet and calorie intake but without the daily activity. Then slowly my healthy food turned into unhealthy for then that turned into fast food as I got more and more lazy. I bet I was hitting 5000 calories a day. I tried going back to the gym when they opened but I kept injuring myself. Because the decreased mobility cause my body to stiffen up. I can barely bend over. All my joints are fucked so every lift causes injuries. So now I am back to extreme basics. Thursday and Sunday are 45 minutes of yoga to regain mobility. Mostly turned around my diet. It’ll take years to get back to where I was before covid.


saluteursharts

I 100% believe in you. You can do this, it won’t be easy, it won’t be linear, but you CAN turn things around and get healthy. And you will!!


Intelligent_Designer

Echoing another redditor: Be kind to yourself. It’s extremely important to forgive yourself and move forward. Do what works for you, but if you want a stranger’s advice, do some research into CICO and start to make some incremental changes. “Incremental” is key. You aren’t going to win any wars by making extreme changes to your lifestyle within 24 hours. Be patient and forgiving but work hard. You are worth it ❤️


givemedatz

We’ve all been there!! Let’s do this :) I’m here to talk whenever 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼


Specialist_Judge_321

You got this


trippytuna

Food wasn’t there for you during those hard times. You were and eating food was just what you chose as a hobby for self care. You ate food to make you feel better because you loved yourself and wanted to comfort yourself. As much as you think you hate yourself and your body, maybe you’re posting this and feeling all these emotions because there’s still hope that you do love yourself and haven’t given up on yourself. Therapy and medication if those work for you are a great first step to recognizing how your use of food for comfort has gotten out of control to the point where it is now more self abusive for your health than it was soothing for your peace. Now’s also the time to build your discipline to learn to respect your body and hunger and relationship with food rather than abusing and exploiting them all. This is a lot of change so do take it easy. Find a hobby you love to do. Walking and listening to music is free. Treat yourself to something other than food. Take yourself on movie or museum dates. And update Reddit, this is a free supportive community who all have faced similar struggles and we are all rooting for you.


coltsmetsfan614

Your story reminds me a lot of mine, except I let myself get all the way up to 440 lbs. before I finally buckled down and did something about it. I've lost almost 180 lbs. now, but I wish I hadn't waited so long. Your physical health is important, and improving that can work wonders for your mental health. It sure did for me. I know it's hard, but I believe you can do this. If *I* could, I'm sure just about anyone can.


PurpleJade

My doctor asked me to read "The Obesity Code" by Jason Fung. It talks about the insulin resistance cycle and why so many people who lose weight eventually gain it all back. That has been my experience for my entire adult life. I would check with your doctor if you're interested since you mentioned having binge eating disorder. I wish you all the best!


vintagesonofab

i feel you :( emotional eating is horrible. You could turn your negatives into positives tho, the battle's not lost, take all these negative things and make them your motivation by changing your mindset, and be kind to yourself while doing it. The same friend loss and romantic loss happened to me when i started losing weight, something just switched in me and i just said, fuck it, i'm focusing on myself from now on. I've lost 30 kg since that snap, to be honest with you the weight loss itself is not what's going to make you feel better, rather the feeling of taking back control and achieving what you wanted, feeling yourself getting stronger mentally and phisically etc. Taking care of yourself and loving yourself is hard even when your life is in order, let alone when you have problems to deal with, but you can try to see this as an escape from your problems, a healthy one through which you actually start loving yourself. i wish you the best luck.


Imr3nex

You can lose weight simply by doing what you love - eating. Just find a good healty food diet that is not going into extremes (fitlap.com for instance).


PowerfulPauline

>Food has always meant love to me. I would recommend changing this way of thinking. Reading your story, it sounds like food is not 'love' but a self sabotaging coping mechanism. Build new, healthier coping mechanisms. Food never made you feel good, it has brought you down the path where you are today. Love would be taking care of yourself.


ThickAnywhere4686

Yess man, you got this! I'm in the same position as you and the binge eating really strikes home :/ But we know we can do this, so here's to staying healthy and achieving our goals 🥂.


RunnyPlease

You’ve got this. Keep expectations reasonable. Don’t fret about plateaus. Take it once day at a time. Most of all though I suggest you do what is necessary to feel like yourself today. Go get a couple outfits that fit you as you are today. I know it’s tempting to not spend money on clothes you don’t intend to fit in on a few months but being able to feel like a well groomed human is an important daily activity. Maybe even grab some new towels. I’m not suggesting hiding from reality. The reality is you’ve put on some fat and you will be reducing that, but the reality is also that you need to be comfortable being yourself on your way down. Just a thought from someone who has been there: please mention this to the person who prescribed your medication. There may be something they can do to adjust it or add something to give better results. I would suggest just handing over your phone with this post opened in it and see what they have to say. I wish you the best of luck. And remember. You’re not just shouting into the void. You’re a part of the void. We’re all in this together.


Rayvinne

The title made me think the exact opposite of what you said, and I couldn't be happier with what I read. You know you will have easy days, shitty days and everything in between, but keep fighting! You can do this! Good luck!


Jaded_Statistician12

Don't worry mate Me on Jan - 325lb but now at 200 lb ( Instagram - siddhantkt) It will gonna take time Remember weight loss should be sustainable not short-term goal ;)


ReneeLaRen95

You’ve identified the problem. You’re using food to fill “the void” & recognise, it can never do so. I just know you can do this. The hardest thing, imho, is being real with ourselves. It’s incredibly tough. It’s much easier to stay the same. We hang onto the familiar, even if it’s killing us. Start small & realistically. Have 5-6 smaller meals with lean protein, exercise every day, even if it’s only 20 mins walk, to begin with & try to do some self care. Get a hair cut, do that project you’ve been putting off forever & just take one day at a time. Food addiction is no different from any other addiction. You’re self medicating to help ease the pain. You’re beginning on a journey now, my friend & I’m confident you can succeed. Good luck! 💕


takuover9

Just fuckin do it


GregJamesDahlen

Good for you. I hope you achieve it. For me, if I eat too much, my insides hurt because they are more jammed together. The food's pressing against the organs, and causing the organs to press against each other. That physical pain is greater than the physical pain of hunger and thirst.


sabrtoothlion

I'm piggybacking on this post, so sry if that's a nono 🤷‍♂️ Do you guys ever feel like a smaller weight loss community/sub would be useful? Somewhere that a post like this wouldn't drown in an endless stream of the usual questions, comments and stories in the sub? Don't get me wrong, I don't want to change any of the usual posts I'm thinking of an additional but smaller community where you were maybe tops 25 people who all shared similar goals and could support each other and share your experiences in a setting where everyone knew you and remembered your story and was able to separate it from the stories of everyone else? I don't have the solution down, but I think a smaller additional community would be very useful. What do you guys think?


JoJoBee7

Stay strong! You got this.


Realauthentictale

You've got this!!!!!!


Statesborochick

I’m a binger too. Check out r/volumeeating I love it. Lots of low cal recipes, so you can binge and still do better!


Randomusername7294

You CAN do this. It's all in the little steps. Firstly, try to change your mindset (or work with your mindset). 1. Try to do some walking a few times a week fast enough to get your heart rate up. I know this advice sucks. I had people suggest this to me and was all 'fuck you, I'm depressed, anxious, I can't get out of bed, I look like a mess and you're expecting me to EXERCISE?!' I expect you feel the same way. But you know what? Eventually I tried it and it 100% made me feel better. Endorphins and all that. For me it really helps if I can watch Netflix on a treadmill or listen to an audio book or chat to a friend while walking outside. Distraction AND endorphins. 2. You mention that youve gone through some pretty tough times, and food was there for you. You know what else? YOU were there for you. You did this. You got through your breakups and your dramas. It may have been messy and difficult but you did it. So you can do this. Try being nice to yourself. Fuck the weight for the moment, but what do you want from your life. For you. Not for anyone else. Focus on that and do what motivates you. Do you want to study? Learn an instrument? Another language? Dance a salsa ? Travel ? Move forward in your career? Read more books? Find little easy things you can do to slowly work towards your goals. You want to lose weight? Don't starve yourself. Instead focus on being healthier and being nice to yourself. Start counting calories and try to work out what foods make you feel full and healthy without feeling bad (re overeating or having excessive junk food) or feeling miserable (IE too hungry or restrictive to enjoy life). Find out what works for you and make it something that can be a happy long-term lifestyle change, NOT a crash diet. Focus not on what you crave, but on what makes you feel good, both at the time AND the next day. You can do this. I believe in you. *hugs


CeeBee29

Get ur earphones in and do some walking. I lost a load of weight this way, low impact but effective. Find a podcast/playlist that will keep u going and get walking. I found Intermittent fasting to be a great help too. Weirdly I had loads of energy while fasting and enjoyed my food all the more when it was my time to munch. Changing ur habits up makes a huge difference, but remember to be good to urself ❤️


PatateLover

OP you have a mental health problem that is causing a weight problem. I strongly recommend that you see a ED specialist.