First—stop calling it cheating. You’re not bad. You’re human. And most likely, your “diet” is too strict, too unrealistic, or not tailored to your life.
Here’s what I tell my clients:
- Restrictive diets backfire. If you cut out all your favorite foods, cravings will build until you eventually cave. Then guilt hits. Then the cycle starts again.
- Are you eating enough? Many people who binge are actually under-eating during the day. Make sure you’re fueling your body—not punishing it.
- Emotional eating is real. Stress, loneliness, or boredom often drive food choices. Awareness is the first step. If this is your case, consider journaling or talking to a coach or therapist.
- Build flexibility into your plan. You need a nutrition strategy that allows for birthday cake, pizza night, or spontaneous dinner dates without shame.
Food isn’t just fuel—it’s part of life. Let’s make peace with it, not fight it.