No fooling......

I have joined with some committed women a group for Food Addictions. We are using the 12-step program prepared by LDS Family Services “Addiciton Recovery Program”. Though the program is used for recovering from all types of addictions, our group is just focusing on food addictions. Food addictions differ than most substance addictions in that you have to have food to survive, so you will never give up food, just amounts, times, types, etc. We decided to use this program because we want life changing results that last. We have all had successes and failures with other weight plans and programs, yet nothing that helped us to make and keep the life style changes that we need.

Though I have had to miss several of the meetings because of travel, family, etc., I have benefited from the group. The main things I have gained thus far are:

1.   Humility, I cannot over come this on my own. I must rely on my Heavenly Father for help.  For years I have thought I should have the will power to overcome this on my own, though I prayed for help, I thought I should be able to over come this weakness. I now realize I cannot overcome without fully relying on the Lord. I not only have hope and confidence, but some humility. I will not only rely on the Lord to strengthen me, but to carry me through the difficult times. Philippians 4: 13,  Alma 26: 12

2.   Awareness, In general I have never felt I over eat because of emotions. I just love the taste of food!!!! I love the pleasure and joy I receive from eating. At one of the meeting we were discussing this topic. One of the women commented with a question, “Why do we need to find joy in eating, and/ or what other ways can we find joy, that do not create such negative side effects?” So I have been keeping that in mind, when I think of eating and over eating.

Besides following an eating plan this week.  I have the goal to eat slowly and really enjoy every bite that I eat. I will also find joy in other activities in addition to eating.  I will also only eat food that has been blessed (that should really help me think and ask for help before I snack or eat more than I need).