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I'm sure there are many out there that can relate, but I just felt the need the throw this topic out there.
Here I am successfully embracing my new life, yet still having to deal with the "old tapes". Several times in the past few weeks I have had to deal with seeing that last bite or two on the plate and knowing that I really was already full, but having to fight the urge of feeling compelled to finish everything on my plate!!! This never happens when I am at home of course, because I just put it away and have it later etc. but when I am out either at someone else house, or at a restaurant with family, the old tapes start running. Things like: They went to so much trouble and effort so I should eat all that I took or was served, or in a restaurant, I've paid for all this so I should eat it, even though I know that all I have to do is ask for a to go container.
Of course these were all the things I was taught growing up!!! Parents who lived through the depression as children like mine were do not 'waste' a single thing!!!! But if I don't waste it then it will go to waist on ME!!!
Who can relate? Any helpful suggestions?
Pegmarie
Here I am successfully embracing my new life, yet still having to deal with the "old tapes". Several times in the past few weeks I have had to deal with seeing that last bite or two on the plate and knowing that I really was already full, but having to fight the urge of feeling compelled to finish everything on my plate!!! This never happens when I am at home of course, because I just put it away and have it later etc. but when I am out either at someone else house, or at a restaurant with family, the old tapes start running. Things like: They went to so much trouble and effort so I should eat all that I took or was served, or in a restaurant, I've paid for all this so I should eat it, even though I know that all I have to do is ask for a to go container.
Of course these were all the things I was taught growing up!!! Parents who lived through the depression as children like mine were do not 'waste' a single thing!!!! But if I don't waste it then it will go to waist on ME!!!
Who can relate? Any helpful suggestions?
Pegmarie
Here is another interesting fact. I am English by birth and my good china is English. So recently I needed to order a couple of replacement plates. To my shock the American replacements are two inches bigger. Sadly this country sets us up for obesity.
Peg Marie, my suggestion is to use a salad plate for your food at home. When I'm at a restaurant, I always just order an appetizer or my husband and I split an entre. Ask for a to-go box right off the bat and put half of your food in it and then you won't feel bad if your plate looks full.
We have been given so many negative images about eating from childhood. But we can beat this thing :))))))
Food is love in our family. We have great BBQ's and swim parties, and planning for Christmas dinner and thanksgiving was always a hobby with us.
Now, I worry that I want that last bite too. At 3.5 months out I feel like I'm eating too much although it only comes out to about 650 calories at most. There is a psychological thing about cleaning my plate (which is actually a small bowl that I use). And, I too feel bad inside when I am at a party and eat just bits of food.
Boy, I think we're the original Bell-man. We've got baggage :-)
Didn't get dessert unless I ate what my dad put on my plate, and he fed us kids like we were working on a farm or somthing! Huge portions and membership in the "clean plate club" from day one.
Started to finally kick in a year or so ago (I'm 3.5 years out now), that I can eat anything I like, and really enjoy just the one or two bites, before I head back into my proteins and veggies plan.
As to the "one bite more" syndrome, it took a few episodes of "the dreaded foamies" before I really learned that one.
Practice, practice, practice. I'm still learning, but getting better.
For tools, I too use salad plates for dishing up holiday dinners for myself, and when it all looks so good that I want to try a bite of everything, I use a teaspoon to serve myself. I can really enjoy the whole Thanksgiving or Easter feast, but still stay within a comfortable range for my tummy.
In the restaurants, I make a meal or 2 of an appetizer, or plan half a weeks lunches around a simple entree, for instance, baked chicken dinner: Chicken salad, low carb tortilla pizza with chicken, cheese and veggies, chicken and cucumber wrap with avocado..... $12 for dinner and 3 or 4 lunches. Not bad.
Finally, give yourself permission to take care of yourself. Quit when you're full. Packing it in isn't going to help starving children in China. I find when I take the time to really enjoy and savor the food people prepare for me, it doesn't matter if I only have a little, as long as I share my appreciation with them. And the best thing is love has no calories.
When I go to call restaurant, I ask the waitress for a to go box, I portion out my food. I put it right into the box, as I already have my 2 to 3 oz portion on my plate.
Close up the leftover takeout box, and push it to the side. Try this! See if it helps when dining out!
Boo