Why Do You Eat?

Judy

You learned about physiological and psychological hunger and internal and external triggers for eating in session 5, Tackling Triggers, of the HEED book.

You might relate to the story of overeating at a big family event. Maybe you even have some of the same triggers for eating that Robert has. As you've learned, there are many, many triggers for eating. And each person is unique in how he or she reacts to the triggers. Now's the time to evaluate your experiences and identify your triggers to eating. Next time you'll know what to do to tackle your triggers.

Here's an activity that will help you identify your triggers and develop personal solutions that will work for you.

Select your triggers for eating, the events or situations that make you want to eat. If you don't see your triggers on this list, use the space provided to add your triggers to the list.

Once you've selected your triggers, use the My Solutions button and you can type in solutions that will help you avoid or adapt to the trigger or situation.

Now, print your list of triggers and solutions. Post the list in a convenient place where you can review it regularly. Try to apply at least one solution to a trigger during the next week.

Rhonda

I've got lots of triggers for eating! The sun comes up. The dogs bark. My favorite program is on TV. . . . Believe me, I can find a reason to eat anytime! I think that I'll need to have a list of alternative activities posted on my refrigerator so that when I'm feeling the urge to eat I'll have a backup plan.