Published:Tuesday, June 9, 2009 11:27 AM PDT
Serving the South Coast of Oregon

Why I eat is not always clear cut
Tuesday, June 9, 2009 11:27 AM PDT

I'm glad last week is over.

Our house was burglarized. The event caused a lot of stress, and a sense of violation I can't really explain.

Eating right wasn't anywhere on my radar. I wanted comfort foods. I wanted to fill a hole.

By the end of the week, I was doing better about what I ate, and I started thinking about why we eat.

Nourishment is the obvious (and correct) answer. But many of us eat for other reasons. Last week, food was a way to deal with stress.

I frequently have used food as a way to make me feel better. I get it into my head that food will heal whatever emotional hurt I have. It never does, but I continue to eat.

I also eat:

• When I'm happy, especially when I'm with friends and family.

• When there is free food.

• When I am tired.

• When I don't want something to go to waste.

It feels like I'm not eating to maintain my body. I suspect this is part of my weight problem, and it's something I should address.

OK. Time for a new goal. I am going to eat solely because I am hungry.  I am not going to seek comfort from food.

But I'm keeping the Triscuits in my desk drawer. Even with my new goal, I may need a snack at work.

Food Junkie Discovery

I have found the answer to my ice cream woes. It is called Skinny Cow. Oh my, it is yummy. I have had the ice cream sandwiches - both chocolate and vanilla - and it was a happy thing. I need to try the other Skinny Cow treats.


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