Clean Plate Syndrome

[InfiniteButterfly 438]

I'm only allowed 1/4 cup of food at this stage (puree). So I whipped up some Egg Beaters with a little added shredded cheddar for a Protein boost. About halfway through, I get the little hiccup/burp that says "Done." And I heeded the voice and stopped, because when I didn't listen to it yesterday, I was in a world of hurt most of the afternoon.

But there's a part of my brain that is so programmed to eating everything on my plate (starving kids in other countries, you know)

It's funny to have no cravings, and rarely be hungry at all...but when I have food it's so hard to stop because of childhood programming. I had no desire to continue eating other than that part of me that was taught to always clean my plate. For this reason, I don't make my kids clean their plates.

[Denise73 89]

That's interesting because I was taught the same thing when I was growing up. I guess I'll have the same "clean your plate" syndrome as you. I'll probably try to adjust by putting 2-3 spoonfuls less on a really small plate. Good luck and thanks for sharing.

[Teachamy 1,042]

You get used to it, eventually. At least I have. Small plates are helpful!

[Pelicanlady 122]

I know just what you mean. I also grew up in the era of the Clean plate club. If I didn't eat my dinner in a timely manner, I would get it again for Breakfast the next day. Our parents meant well, but didn't know how it was damaging us. I haven't had my surgery yet, hoping to get approval this week. Good luck with the puree. Can't wait until I am eating pureed foods.

[lnelson796 117]

I still have problems with that sometimes! I try to eat off of dessert sized plates to keep me from adding too much food to the plate. Then when I eat it all I'm both physically and mentally satisfied.

[SusinMichigan 76]

We also had the starving children in China thing. Although I never did figure out how my eating things I didn't like would save the Chinese children. Worse yet though ... I'd have to sit and look at my plate with food from 5:00 until bedtime. And I wonder why I have eating problems? Hmmmm.