So, I moved this task to my computer desk and I automatically reached for something -- and this time all I got was a handful of paperclips, which aren't nearly as tasty as sugar cookies. It had become second nature to reach for that food because I was doing the same activity, despite the fact that I wasn't even at my kitchen table.
Lesson learned? Certain spots can be "dangerous" for dieters. Examples: If sitting in the kitchen to do crafts, homework, or the like, causes you to raid the fridge… leave the room. If lingering at the dining room table makes you long for dessert… vamoose! Better still, head outside and take a walk. Not only will it get your mind off of eating, you'll have the extra benefits of exercising!
So, what is your dieting danger zone? Take a moment to think about locations, activities, or combinations of the two, that lead you to eat on auto pilot. What can you change about this habit? Is there a healthier alternative to eating (such as knitting while watching television instead of snacking on high-cal foods)?
Acknowledging -- and changing -- these habits will go a long way toward making lifestyle changes that stick.
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