Jane Springer

When You Really Want to Binge

Last week I wanted to binge.  On chips and salsa.

Have there been times for you when just want to say, “I don’t care.  I want those chips and I want them now?”

It had been a challenging couple of days.  Traveling with family, including 2 eight-year-olds, we had our flights cancelled and had to stay in Phoenix two extra days.  It was 113 degrees and we were very frustrated.  We wanted to get home.

I was running out of food (I always pack gluten, soy, dairy and egg-free snacks for my trips, in case I can’t find anything I can eat.)

Trying to make the best of the situation, we decided to go to the movies and afterwards we went to a sports bar for a late lunch.  I was tired and hungry.  The kids were cranky. I ordered a turkey burger without a  bun and a salad.  What I really wanted were sweet potato chips.  But they were cooked in the same oil as the breaded things, so I knew it was contaminated and I couldn’t count on them being gluten-free.

Then my husband ordered chips and salsa.  The basket arrived with hot, delicious looking corn chips.  I asked the server if the corn chips were gluten-free.  She said they were cooked in the same oil as everything else.  I usually avoid corn, but I had had it.

I reached for the chips and had a few.  Then I stopped.  Do I really want to take a chance on feeling sick tomorrow when we are trying to fly out at 6 a.m.?  I REALLY wanted them.  Part of me did not care.  But part of me knew that I would probably feel bad tomorrow.  About the gluten (I am celiac), the corn (which I have a sensitivity to) and just in general.  A binge would not help the situation or get me home and faster.

This is what I did to stop myself and it can work for you, too, if you are getting ready to binge.

Step 1.  Stop.  Do not reach.  Close your eyes and take 5 deep breaths.

Step 2.  Think about how you will feel tomorrow. Disappointed in yourself, bloated and even sick, a step farther away from your goals.  Ask yourself, “Will this help me and does it feel like love?”

Or strong.  Proud of yourself.  Healthy.  Light.

Step 3.  Make a better choice.  Engage in conversation.  Get up and move.  Call or text someone.  Reach for a healthy alternative.

My choice was to keep engaging with family.  Realizing there was no reason to take a chance.  Ate my turkey burger and salad and was full and satisfied.  Had a piece of dark chocolate.

Try these three steps the next time you want to binge out in a moment of upset, frustration or boredom.

I would love to hear how it worked for you.  Leave me a note in the comments section.

Hey, and if you would like help with weight loss, making better food choices, living a healthier lifestyle or navigating gluten-free living, give me shout out here.  I would love to help you.

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