The basis of
compulsive eating is emotional and people really need to learn to listen to
their hungers. It's important for them to eat when they're hungry, to stop when
they've had enough, and to deal with the emotional conflicts they express by eating.
Although most of us
are afraid that if we don't have a step-by-step program to tell us what, when,
and how much to eat, we will never make any changes, the most important element
in change is self-trust. The willingness to listen to the voice that wants to
care for us, not destroy us.
If you have been
following programs that tell you what and how much to eat, it may be
overwhelming to be told that if you listen to your body, it will guide you in
making healthy choices. The Eating Guidelines are just that — guidelines, not
rules with which to punish yourself — they are suggestions that can be useful
when making a commitment to be conscious when you eat.
Eating Guidelines
1. Eat when you are
hungry.
2. Eat sitting down in a
calm environment. This does not include the car.
3. Eat without
distractions. Distractions include radio, television, newspapers, books,
intense or anxiety-producing conversations, and music.
4. Eat only what you
want.
5. Eat until you are
satisfied.
6. Eat (with the
intention of being) in full view of others.
7. Eat with enjoyment,
pleasure, and gusto.