my name is Rachel and iam 19 years old and I weigh 168 pounds and iam only 5 foot 2 inches tall. I know i need to lose weight becouse iam overweight for my heighth but i just can't stop eating. Whenever I see food I eat just becouse it's there. I've gained 15 pounds since may and it's only november that's only 7 month's and I get really ashamed when people say I eat to much so sometime's i even go to my bedroom to eat when nobody's looking so they don't know that iam eating? It's like I don't have any control of when I eat please help!
[ Answer this question ] Want to answer more questions in the Health & Fitness category? Maybe give some free advice about: Nutrition? ciao77 answered Wednesday November 26 2008, 1:24 pm: To add to the answer below, you might be seeing food as a source of pleasure or relief; eating is a sort of addiction for you. Most people love food to an extent. Eating is a "feel good" activity for most of us. But as with any activity, it is very important to know when to stop. Some people are addicted to other things like smoking, sex, shopping, etc., for the same reasons: it feels good and it's an addiction. Most things are okay in moderation, but going overboard on anything- whether it's good or bad- is a problem. In your case, it's not only an emotional issue, it's a health issue as well. Being overweight, as another columnist mentioned, is very bad for your health. It can lead to other health problems down the line, and at your age, it is definitely not a good path to be taking.
For starters, if you have a trusted adult you can talk to- a parent, for example- let them know that you need to do something about binge eating and being overweight. Talk to a psychologist and even a nutritionist.. they can help you set goals for yourself regarding eating right and starting to get enough exercise. They can help you see why eating has been a sort of emotional release for you, and what you can do do harbor positive habits instead. If you are a student, all colleges have student health centers that have psychologists and nutritionists on the staff...you should consult with them to see what you can do. They might also be able to refer you to some other professional, if needed, or even some sort of support group for individuals going through similar things. Whatever you do, do not go on a sudden, restrictive diet (aka, don't try starving yourself or denying yourself food altogether)- it's like stopping something cold turkey, which can lead to symptoms of withdrawal. Talk to your doctor or a psychologist about the best ways to try gradually eating healthier. By all means, do something to address the deeper issues. There are plenty of people and resources out there to help you.
Here is a very useful website with information and links on binge eating, including treatment options:
askdes answered Tuesday November 25 2008, 8:16 pm: this could possibly be an eating disorder called binge eating, but unlike bulemics you don't throw your food up. i'm definitely not saying go throw up. what i am saying though is this can be just as serious as anorexia or bulemia. over eating and being over weight can be horrible for your health. talk to your doctor about it, maybe even see a theripist. food is addicting! [ askdes's advice column | Ask askdes A Question ]
rawrlolol answered Tuesday November 25 2008, 4:04 pm: So you said you eat because it's there, right? And/or sometimes because you're hungry?
I'm not sure what to tell you that will work. As I am underweight and have a fast metabolism.
I'd say carry healthy snacks around with you. And if you see food that isn't particularly good for you, eat the snack instead.
Maybe some fruit cups, baby carrots, apple slices, soy beans, yogurt, etc..
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