Psychology Free Online Medical Advice

Weight Loss Motivation

Written by: Gunborg Palme, certified psychologist and certified psychotherapist, teacher and tutor in psychotherapy.

First version: 26 Nov 2006. Latest revision: 26 Nov 2006.

Question:

I Can´t Avoid Eating Cookies When I Have Them With Me. How do I get Weight Loss Motivation?

Greta (age 58): The other day I was going to visit a good friend, who was in hospital, and I bought a packet of cookies as a present. I took one out of the packet on the way there, as I thought it didn't matter, but then I couldn't stop, so when I arrived there were none left.
Martin (age 34): I bought 3 cream buns i.e. one each for my wife, our daughter and myself but on the way home in the car, I ate them all. I was ashamed of myself and so I lied about saying that I had forgotten to buy them.
Mary (age 36): I usually buy goodies for my children on weekends, but unfortunately, I often eat most of them myself. I would be very pleased if you could help me to avoid doing this.

Answer:

People who are naturally slim only eat when they are hungry, but those with weight problems tend to eat more when food is available so it is necessary for them to be aware of this and react accordingly if they wish to avoid gaining weight.

Those who have difficulties in the presence of attractive food must avoid this situation completely, e.g. by buying flowers or telling people about it.

Where children are concerned it is unwise to accustom them to weekend goodies if they are to avoid overweight as adults, or even long before that. The emphasis should always be on essential nutrition, e.g. fruit. If you feel you must give them weekend goodies, just buy enough for them to consume at once.

Sources, references