For me, ignoring hunger or cravings isn’t a struggle as much as having to face mental problems head on is.
I’m an emotional eater so whenever I feel anxious, depressed, stressed or any other negative emotion, I turn to food to distract me from these problems and make me feel better. Fasting takes away my only coping mechanism and forces me to stick through these emotions.
Anyone else feel this way? Were you able to find better coping mechanisms during your fasts?
I do IF so can’t comment on extended fasting, but I have more relatable experience to this since giving up alcohol, which I used/abused to manage emotions. Try to find another distraction when you feel like eating - especially ones that take you out of the house and away from food if possible (like going for a walk). Also brush your teeth or rinse with mouthwash if you’re tempted - eating is much less appealing with that minty taste in your mouth. Keep reminding yourself that you’re doing well and that the discomfort (emotional or hunger pangs) is leading you to a beneficial end.
If need be, consider getting some (professional) support to help you to deal with the negative emotions that can set you off
Best of luck!!
This is my biggest concern, what I will do when I am feeling down or stressed. However, I know I’ll end up feeling even worse if I break my fast, so I’m just going to try to focus on how good I’ll feel if I can push through. That’s the theory, easier said than done though.
Make a list of other things to try when you get down and depressed.
TBH, for me, preventative stuff has been the best. I got the Headspace app and every morning I do the 5 deep breath exercise and listen to the morning mindset thingy. I take meditation courses on the app and listen to their night time sleep scales. After about 30 days of doing this, I noticed I changed my fight or flight a lot. So I keep doing it.
Also, I started hiking in nature. When it got too cold, I switched to the gym. I try to go every day. You know, they’ve discovered exercising 30 minutes a day works just as well as taking an antidepressant. I go every day I can. My husband is proud of what I’m doing for my body - but I do it for my mind.
Find things that might work for you. Crochet or knitting would keep your hands busy.