Food is Not Your Therapist

My daughter’s wedding is just around the corner. As with all big upcoming events, I’ve been watching every morsel of food entering my mouth. Why can’t we eat like that all the time? I guess that’s a discussion for another day…

Here’s what I’ve learned from this sudden onset of healthy choices and no late night buttered popcorn. When we don’t have our usual binge-worthy foods to disappear into, life gets real. But we must remember this important fact: Food is not our therapist. 

I’ve always known I turn to food for almost every reason but proper nutrition. Emotional support, loneliness, not enough sleep the night before… But lately I had to find other avenues to solve those issues. Self-care, playing games with my family, sleeping in…

I’m quickly deciding I like these other choices better than turning to unhealthy foods. After the wedding, I don’t want to go back to using food as my therapist! I would love to keep choosing those healthier options. Are you with me?

Self-care feels amazing on so many levels. Hanging out with the people I love leaves me refreshed, not with a stomachache like overeating often does. And sleeping in, well, there’s no explanation needed there I’m sure. It’s a form of heaven on earth.

So what does a girl do when food is calling for that much needed therapy appointment? Here are some ideas that have worked for me over the years. I hope they serve you as well.

• It would be crazy for me not to mention actual therapy here as it’s truly a wonderful option. I sought outside help many times in my life and will always be thankful for what I gained in those appointments.
• In those emotionally unstable moments we all struggle with, try any form of self-care that helps you avoid eating. Check out 7 Ways to Practice Self-Care When Anxiety Hits to get you started. These can also work for anger, sadness, general stress…
• Stay away from sugar! I know. That’s what we might crave the most as a therapist replacement. But sugar will lead to a binge pretty much every time. Learn more in How to Break Free From Sugar Addiction.
• Last, but certainly not least, turn to God. I’m finding when I open my Bible app long before the Facebook one, my day starts out so much better. Regrouping with Him each morning makes that to-do list seem lighter. (My to-do list sends me to the pantry way too often!)

He will give us far greater peace than that bag of chips or box of Oreos. And the difference in the aftereffect of prayer verses a food binge is immeasurable.

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
~Matthew 11:28 (NLT)

As always, thank you for being on this journey with me. If you are new here, please subscribe to my free newsletter.

This article is part of my Turning to Food series. You can learn more about my food addiction story in An Addict’s Journey or you may want to check out some of the other monthly updates.