what do you think of this philosophy?

a diet and fitness pro, who was once very overweight and had great success in losing all the weight, was being interviewed and she had been asked if she ever allows herself to cheat once in awhile, like with a Snickers bar.

Her response was (paraphrasing), "I would never allow myself even a bite of chocolate. I was addicted to junk food. I look at it and compare it to being an alcoholic. Once in recovery, allowing one sip can spiral into the patient becoming out of control again. You wouldn't allow a recovery alcoholic a drink just because they've been successfully sober for a year or two, would you?"

this made me pause.


what do you think?

Message edited 11/29/2011 1:09:47 PM.

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

Although I dont follow her philosophy, I can kind of see where she's coming from . Somtimes I think sugar is a drug and that includes simple carbs. Once I bring those things back in my diet, I have to work very hard to do it in moderation.
Its a slippery slope and if you recognize something is a trigger food, it's best not to include it.
On the other hand though, Id bet money that she has had a bite or 2 of a snicker bar

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

Perhaps this IS true for someone truly addicted to food in the way an addict is addicted to anything (be it alcohol, ciggs, drugs etc). But for *me* this not true....and I would venture to say MOST people do not have to subscribe to this, perhaps some do though.

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

I'm going to agree with the other posters on this. It really depends on the person. Only you know if you can handle to a small portion of cake or candy. Some people can't without letting themselves go. I know for me I really have to avoid altogether. When it comes to sweets once I start, I can't stop and overinduldge. I've eaten desserts until I've gotten myself sick. Personally, I'm working on trying to find a balance and allow myself some dessert. It's very difficult.

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

I think that people have to do what works for them.

However, to classify certain foods as 'bad' - I don't think that's the way to go. Are some foods healthier? Obviously. But the all or nothing attitude with food doesn't work for me.

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

I agree, I am ver addicted to sugar and carbs, I'm now at the point in the weight loss where I usually start to allow myself a bite of this and a taste of that. I am determined this time - I just can't do it cause I will want to eat the whole thing

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

I have that philosophy--I can never eat cake or cupcakes. To me,they set me off into a downward spiral. So I completely avoid them.

I guess it depends on the person but as I've had food issues in the past, the best way is for me to completely avoid.

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

I agree with everyone else in that it really depends on the person. For me, I can't take that approach. My thought is, I work really hard 5-6 days a week in the gym so I like to splurge every once in a while with a treat. If I denied myself all of the time, I would be miserable. But, I do understand what she is saying, because food can be very addictive and it takes a lot of control to say no to unhealthy options. I can completely see how allowing yourself to cheat might send someone into a downward spiral.

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

I think this is true if you have a food addiction other wise I think it is fine to eat sweets in moderation.

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

Re: what do you think of this philosophy?

I can totally see where she is coming from.

I really think my parents have gotten to the point where they are totally addicted to food and should follow this kind of philosophy.

While my mother is "on" Weight Watchers, they eat the majority of their meals out and go to McDonalds of all places at least 2-3 mornings a week.

She tries to justify it by saying "I only get egg and cheese and no butter on my muffin".

My father still gets a whole meal though.

All they talk about is food and plan constantly in advance for meals, often days in advance.

It's sickening and has caused lots of arguments because DH and I never plan our lives around food (often we don't eat together during the week because of our schedules) and is very upsetting to see how stressed out they get about it.