Dieting, even the thought of the word can make some people shudder. But, for some of us, it’s something that will be a lifelong part of our journey. That’s the case with me – it’s the life of a dieter.
For all of my adult life, I’ve had issues with weight. I’ve been overweight (at some times, morbidly), and I’ve actually been underweight. Okay, so only one time (in my late teens) was I underweight and that was as a result of extreme dieting. You might be thinking, “But Sue, you’re an intelligent woman. How can you let your weight be an issue?” Trust me, it’s easier than you might think.
How I Gained It
I’ve never been a very athletic person. And quite honestly, I don’t see that changing anytime soon. It is what it is. Also, I do enjoy tasty food. But shouldn’t I know that lack of activity, together with eating, can cause the weight to come on? Yup, I know all about all of that. But let me give you a little insight into my brain – and probably that of some other people who also eat too much.
Emotional Eating – Yep, I Do It
First of all, I am an emotional eater – always have been, and probably always will be. I definitely prefer tasty treats (whether sweet or savory) over a piece of celery or a carrot stick. And, as someone who has dealt with depression, I’ve had quite a few periods of emotional eating.
On the flip side of that, there are times when I am out with family or friends – although I definitely limit those times because I find that I still don’t have the best discipline sometimes – and we’re just chatting away and I’m eating mindlessly. Before I know it, I’ve taken in way too many calories. So, to my family and friends who might wonder why I decline invitations so often, it’s because I need to watch my intake.
But What About Healthy Food?
Yes, even healthy food can be an issue for someone like me. I could eat too much of it. Or, and this is important to understand, eating healthy food can turn into eating what one might call unhealthy food. I’ll start with the healthy stuff.
Level of Activity
Then there’s activity. I know that activity helps. Trust me, I know these things! It’s just difficult at times because I get wrapped up in work and before I know it, 3 hours have passed. Or, maybe it’s the weekend and I just feel like lounging around because I’ve had a busy week.
Also, I recently came to the realization that my resting heart rate is much lower than it was previously. Maybe that is partly because of the weight loss that I’ve been able to accomplish recently. So, while I suppose it’s a good thing that my resting heart rate is lower, I also find that if I don’t get up from my desk periodically, I will not drop a pound. I know, I know…gotta get that cardio going. I will say that since I came to this realization, I’ve been better at wearing my FitBit (yes, I slacked on it for a while) and have added the little hourly “Sue, get your butt up” notification. Actually, I got a new wristband for the Fitbit, so it’s much more appealing to me and I tend to be more mindful of wearing it as a result. It’s funny how something as small as a wristband change can make the FitBit that much nicer to have.
The Psych Side Of It
As I’m sure others who find themselves going up and down in the dieting game can agree, the psych side of dieting plays a really big role in my ability to be disciplined.
I also have been known to overhear things people say – whether about me or about someone else, or I’ve noticed a glance that made me uncomfortable. Sometimes these utterances or glances are in pity or disgust, or even in concern. All of them, regardless of intention, can have the same effect.
On the other hand, for me, when I am successful in dropping weight and get compliments on my success, I then get a little too confident and then I end up slacking on my mindfulness. Then, guess what happens. Yep, it starts to creep back on again. Ugh!
I’m totally over-simplifying the psychology of it, but just know that the brain can govern food intake in a variety of ways.
The Life of a Dieter
While I have lost weight, I definitely know that I need to keep it off – especially having had the facelift recently. I certainly don’t want to mess that up!
Does it get frustrating at times? Sure. But ya know what? Like I said before, it is what it is. Everyone’s life journey is different and this is just a part of mine.
Well, now you know a little bit of what goes on in my mind when it comes to eating. And, I’d be willing to bet that I’m not alone in all of this. Why am I telling you this? Because if you’ve never gone through it, you won’t know. So there ya go! 🙂
Disclaimer: Please know that my opinions are my own. When it comes to dieting, or anything that has an impact on one’s health, I urge you to consult with a healthcare professional.
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