I really need some advice here. I’m now over 300 pounds, and it just keeps going up. I can’t seem to stop eating, and it’s scaring me a lot. I’m desperate for help. What can I do?
I know exactly what you’re going through. For me, eating was my way to deal with stress and boredom too. What helped me was staying busy and setting small goals. I was at my heaviest around 234 pounds and managed to get down to 179.
Here’s what I did:
- Cut out alcohol and soda, just water and tea now.
- Started counting calories and made sure I was eating a bit less than I was burning.
- Gym time. I used to hate it, so I’d only watch my favorite shows while on the treadmill. Now I can run miles without a break.
- Took care of myself more with regular haircuts and making myself feel good.
- Went back to school. Between work, school, gym, and other stuff, I didn’t have time to overeat.
It’s tough, but you’ve got this if you keep at it.
Hey, mind if I ask if it’s the type of food you’re eating or how much that’s the issue?
I was in a similar place. I didn’t realize how much weight I’d gained until I felt really stuck. Recognizing it and wanting to change is a big step. Things can get better from here.
@Storm
It’s both. I eat mostly because I’m bored, and I know the food choices aren’t great. Most times, I’m not even hungry, but I eat anyway… just because it’s a meal time or I’m watching something. Lately, I can barely sleep since I’m scared something will happen if I gain any more. I can feel my body struggling.
@Freddie
I totally get that. I had similar habits, associating TV time or sitting on the couch with snacking. It’s tough, but not impossible to break those routines.
How’s your water intake? Staying hydrated can make a big difference too.
@Storm
Yeah, I drink water, unsweetened tea, and black coffee mostly. Sometimes I’ll have a zero-sugar mix too.
Freddie said:
@Storm
Yeah, I drink water, unsweetened tea, and black coffee mostly. Sometimes I’ll have a zero-sugar mix too.
That’s great to hear. I found drinking more water, especially with meals, helped me feel fuller and snack less.
Eating right makes a big difference, but staying active helps too. Do you get any exercise in?
Freddie said:
@Storm
I tried before but lost motivation. I do have an elliptical machine at home though.
That’s a great start. A lot of people lose motivation; it happens. It’s important to make it part of your daily routine. I also struggled with motivation at first, but then I read ‘Atomic Habits’ by James Clear. It’s about building habits and not relying on motivation alone.
You’re not alone in this, and little changes can really add up.
Freddie said:
@Storm
Thanks a lot for sharing that. It’s been emotional going through this.
Anytime. I’m just a message away if you need someone to chat with. You’re not alone in this.
I don’t really have extra cash for the gym, so it would have to be home workouts. I’ve got an elliptical here. Maybe I’ll try listening to music while I exercise? My sugar intake isn’t too high. I mostly stick to tea, water, and coffee, but I have a habit of eating bread, potatoes, fried food, and quick microwave meals or popcorn every night.
@Freddie
That elliptical can be a great cardio workout. Just keep at it little by little, and you’ll get into the habit.
I was in the same situation last year, weighing around 300 lbs, and now I’m down to the 220s. The hardest part was getting past my own excuses. I would often go to the kitchen out of boredom and then catch myself asking, ‘Do I even need this?’ It’s tough to change, but worth it if you stick with it. Building new habits takes time, but it’s doable. Rooting for you.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I think I really need to work on building up my confidence, and then maybe I can take better care of myself.