I’ve been contemplating life after my juice fast. What do I do? Obviously, after going for over a week without solid food, I don’t want to get back into the habits that landed me here in the first place but, over the last few years, I’ve realized that I am a food addict. How did I know I am an addict? Well, here’s a few things I noticed about myself:
- I often eat for pleasure, as opposed it being out of any real hunger.
- At work, when someone brings in sweets, I hoard some for myself but often sneak back to grab more when no one’s looking.
- I get irritable if I don’t get my “fix”.
- Going without leaves me out of sorts, including headaches and lethargy.
- I have often purchased food on my way home from work, eaten it and had a full meal when I got home.
I don’t know if these all fit the classic signs of addiction but, they at least point to a problem. Even though my fast will not meet my previously intended goal, it has provided me with enough of a clear head to really process my approach to food. I’ve realized that food is a source of pleasure and shame. So, I’m working in a new direction now. Here are the goals:
- Cook more. Honestly, I really don’t even like most fast food. I get it out of convenience more than anything. I’m actually a pretty decent cook, if I say so myself. I just need to plan and organize better.
- Drink more water. A lot of cravings can be curbed by just making sure that you get around 8 glasses (64 oz.) of water in you a day.
- Think about what it is I’m eating: It’s nothing to go to a vending machine at work, grab a candy bar and eat it, only to realize later that it was another 200-250 calories that I did not need. It helps to be conscious of the things we are putting in our bodies.
- Eat something else: Finding a healthier alternative can go a long way. For example, sausage gravy and biscuits should not be an everyday breakfast, especially when I can have high-fiber oatmeal, turkey bacon and egg whites (I hate yolks!) and still consume fewer calories.
- Do something else: I find that when I am productive, I don’t think about junk food as much. Maybe I should be using my idle time on family, business, fitness or projects I’ve been neglecting.
I don’t think I’ve set lofty goals here so, I’m hoping that they are easier to pursue. I’ll keep you posted on my progress.
