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I would like to lose 20 pounds. I eat most of the time due to boredom. I have a 8-5 job that is mostly sitting. When I get home, I’m mentally exhausted most of the time. I don’t have any friends to inspire me. Please help. — Linda
Linda wants to lose weight but is having a hard time doing it. Most of the blame is due to eating when she’s bored and lack of movement due to a desk job. In addition, she’s simply exhausted most of the time and doesn’t have friends who inspire her to get motivated. Sound familiar to you? That explains my life perfectly sometimes!
Well Linda, you’re certainly not alone. Often, the outside factors in our world play a big role on our daily lives. Many of us eat when we’re bored or need a little comfort. Call that mindless eating if you will, but it can fill a void. Before you reach for that extra snack or continue to munch on those chips, ask yourself if you’re really hungry or just eating to eat.
Most of the time, it’s exactly what Linda faces: boredom. Instead, turn away from the food and do something else — anything else. Whether it’s going into another room, picking up a magazine to read, walking outside to get some fresh air……you name it. If you’re physically doing something else, you won’t be taking in that extra food that can add extra calories in the end.
I can’t tell you to change jobs to get moving – especially in this economy. But, think of ways to increase physical activity at work and avoid eating to fill the time. During breaks or lunch, walk with a friend (summer is coming – weather is improving). You’ll not only get some activity in, but you can converse with a colleague or friend (you might just find some inspiration there). Pack your lunch or snacks with you for work. This way, you avoid the pitfalls of going out to eat more often or hitting the vending machine for snacks.
Also, having food (healthy of course) with you at all times — and specifically for snacks — can really help avoid overeating and allow you to eat healthy every couple of hours, which is good for your metabolism.
Check out eDiets.com and our community. If you want inspiration, our community is the place to be. Whenever I need a pick-me-up, I jump on to surf the boards, participate in a chat, or simply ask a question. It really helps me to get motivated!
And of course, our Nutrition Support Team can help you pick the plan that will work for you!
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