Sight + Smell =/= Hunger

[PhotoNut 7]

One of the biggest things I've noticed about my food addiction is that the sight or smell of foods triggers this instant mindset of "MMmm... I'm so hungry!" Even when I'm NOT hungry.

I am working very hard on re-training my brain in this area. These are the steps I'm taking:

1. Recognize the reaction to sights and smells. Wipe the drool from my chin and get a grip on the Pavlovic response.

2. Stop all other thoughts and focus on a discussion with myself about the reality of this reaction. It is a habit of an addict, not an honest message from my body letting me know I need nourishment.

3. Acknowledge that the aroma is very pleasing and attach that sensation to a nice memory that doesn't involve food, or just enjoy it in the same way I enjoy smelling rain or fresh flowers.

4. Attach sights of fattening foods to negative responses. Disect the image and get to the ingredients - fat, sugar, grease, heart attack, 307 pounds, stretch marks, size 26 jeans. (you get the idea)

5. Bring the experience to a close with the affirmation that I've overcome the addiction, and that each victory makes me stronger.

This seems to be working very well for me, so I thought I'd share. I hope it helps someone else as well.

[NJChick 3]

Yer goooooooooood !!

(shoot, all I do is run like hell) :girl_hug:

[PhotoNut 7]

Oh, didn't I mention that you do all of that on the run? oops

*chuckles*

[NJChick 3]

My problem is, I run in the wrong direction LOL...

You should be proud of your accomplishment Pnut, I for one admire you.

[PhotoNut 7]

Well thanks, but I'm not so sure anyone is to be admired. We are all fighting our own fights and each person has to drum up a lot of strength and courage to keep going. What's "easy" for me might be the hardest thing in the world for someone else. So their accomplishment of the same thing would be much more to be admired. If that makes any sense.

I just find what's working for me and share it in the hopes that it might help someone else. Like so many others have done for me! :girl_hug:

[paula 4]

The worst place this happens to me, is my parents house! To a degree like no other.

I have to do major head work EVERYTIME I go there.

This really is a great thread P'Nut.

[vinesqueen 2]

Odd, I've never experienced this. Or at least, not that I can remember. Certianly not since banded.

food smells have triggered desire to eat, but not hunger. As in, mmmmn, Cinnabons! But I know it would take me about an hour to eat a small one, and I have no desire to spend my time that way.

[Woodys 0]

I can beat every last one of you........LOL.

My husband and I own / operate a fine dining restaurant. He is a professional chef. All day, all night, I see, serve, smell, clean up after, ......his excellent cooking! The smells that get to me the most are sauteed onions and grilled baguette.

It is not easy.........one of my biggest obstacles is not to succumb to the aromas of the kitchen.

It will be a lot easier when I can once again taste some regular food....but for now I'm on the last leg of the pre-op fast and I haven't faltered yet....but almost!

So people...........if I can resist.........anyone can.

Carol

[PhotoNut 7]

Now see? That's what I was talking about in my last post!

Carol, you are one strong woman!! *salutes Carol*