I'm a recovered addict and I've noticed I eat a lot more than I used to. I'm wondering if this is my mind's way of finding a new addiction? What do you guys think?

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Not a new addiction per se, but we can and do seek out alternative "comforts" to help us feel better. Once I stopped drinking - I was drinking 12 or so beers a night weekdays, more on weekends - I started wolfing down snacks, huge bowls of ice cream, full size candy bars, etc. My body craved the missing starches and sugars. But then my A1C1 shot up to pre diabetic levels, and had to work to change my diet. But after my first six or so months of sobriety it was easier - the more comfortable and confident I became with my sobriety - and myself - the easier it became to eat healthy, exercise (somewhat, I'm still lazy!), etc. So something to keep an eye on, but no need to think that some extra eating is a new addiction, per se.

like

Sobriety is a gift, but it is not freely or simply given to us. We must be in the work and effort, with no expectation of specific reward, other than a day of sobriety is better for us and our lives compared to a day of being in the thrall and influence of a substance we cannot control of our relationship with. But if we do the work, stay sober, and improve our lives, I have heard enough testimony - and am starting to experience it myself - that yes, better days and rewards are within our grasp, the promise can come true.

💯

like

How much clean time you got? I’ve noticed sugar and be a problem for me if I’ve got a lot around the house.

like

I wouldn’t stress sweets right now. I smoked cigarettes my whole first year before trying to quit that. Staying clean is top priority

Just watch yourself and be honest with why you are eating. Is it reflexive? Is it because you are bored or need to do something with your hands? Some people are prone to addiction because of the way they are put together. That same drive that made it easy for you to get hooked on alcohol, drugs, tobacco, etc. can also make it easier for you to get hooked on food. That's the negative possibility. The positive one is that now that you are off the addictive substance you are healthier and what you are experiencing is just a healthy appetite. Congratulations, good luck, and keep the faith.

Totally normal, but like others have said, keep tabs on it. It’s no fun to gain 30 lbs, though 30 lbs is still better than picking up a drink or a drug. I went hard on the edible cookie dough early in sobriety; I still reach for a snack or two (or twenty) when I’m having a down day and avoid feelings, but I do my best to balance it out with a workout or healthy choices the next day.

The reason for reaching for food can actually be four-fold:
1) For alcoholics, there’s a ton of sugar in booze so the body craves sugar to make up for the deficit.
2) For addicts and alcoholics, sugar lights up the brain and feels good, so it can be a “weak substitute” and provide a little relief.
3) Chances are, our diets were straight crap, or we weren’t eating much of anything, so now sober the body is like “feed me!!!!” 👹
4) Overeating as an addiction; this is the dangerous one and would be a case of “addiction switching”. A lot of folks end up in multiple 12 step programs once they get a handle on the main addiction that’s killing them.

I think this is normal and has happened to many of us. The best thing you can do is start exercising and watching what you eat so you can manage it and make sure it doesn't get too out of control.

Related Posts

Does dealing with USCIS put anybody else into a state of depression?

likefunny

I wake up every night holding my breath lmao. Idk if that’s classic sleep apnea or if my body is subliminally trying to off itself while I’m not paying attention.

funnylike

God is so inspiring...

// I'm actually very happy whenever someone beats any terrible disease, even then the amount of cancer beaters is quite overwhelming lately.

Post Photo
likefunny

Wavering between tired and happy. Finally getting my stamina back post covid. I've walked 10 miles in the past week. Pre covid I was walking between 2 and 4 miles a day. But I can tell I'm still not 100 percent. I'm so tired in the evenings. Hopefully that will fade the next couple of weeks.

like

I know this may sound like a question but I'm not sure how far along am I. My last mense was we 8/2. My embryo transfer was 8/23. I did my blood test on 9/1 and it was positive. How do I know how many weeks am I?

like

Does ADHD have a big impact on your memory? It feels like if I don't have constant reminders set or leave notes for myself I can forget ANYTHING even if it's really important to me. I think it's making my partner feel like I don't remember the things they say or don't care to listen. What can I do?? Not on medication but if it helps with this I'd take it.

like

My father had a sever case of Covid and he made it out successfully. I’m very grateful for this. Close to a year down the line, I’m finding that he is having severe memory loss issues and can’t remember significant details. Has anyone experienced or is experiencing this? How have y’all dealt with it?

like

And Coronavirus also......geez. 🤦‍♀️

Post Photo
likefunny

Anyone experience heartburn after retrieval? This is my third and haven’t had acidity before. Doctor warned about pain, nausea etc but no guidance around heart burn which gets real bad when I sleep.

like

Hi Capgemini people, Till 15th November we have to declare our vaccination status so that they can plan back to office for the employees who are fully vaccinated or having report of not having covid. I am Fully vaccinated but if I declare that I am partially vaccinated will they get to know my bluff? Actually I am not much interested to go back to office as of now may be in february it will be fine for me
Capgemini

like

EY folks, anyone get their Invisalign covered by insurance?

like

Anyone here diagnosed with gum disease (periodontitis)?? What’re you doing to improve your gum & general oral health? Any recs for toothpaste / mouth wash? Thank you!

like

FIRE newbie here. Is it possible to reach FIRE with a special needs kid? Has someone done it? Are there any alternatives to fund therapies beside insurance?

like

At 29 weeks. What are the things to start doing now? Feeling a bit anxious about the closing D date. How can I be better prepared. Have already signed up for birthing classes in Sept and am doing prenatal exercises.

like

My anxiety makes me good at my job. My incessant checking, and double checking, and analyzing has earned me praise, trust, and early promotions. Sometimes I wonder, if I were to take medication to give myself some relief, and to stop the panic attacks, would I be less productive? And then I wonder, do I value my own health so little? But I’m so validated by my performance...sad isn’t it? Hope I’m not alone.

like

To do an ERA or not before transfer is the question. My clinic said currently the recommendation is to only do an ERA with multiple transfer fails, but I’ve read about ERA’s for those with recurrent pregnancy loss as well. Anyone go through this experience?

likehelpful

Pulaski was my favorite TNG doctor. Do you guys have a favorite?

Post Photo

Sending a message of peace to everyone post the New Zealand terrorist attack. I pray that Allah keeps you all spiritually , physically, and mentally safe. If you’re feeling like you need to talk

like

Covid-19 coverage: what are you seeing? Where are we headed?

like

For those who work 100% remote with their company, what health insurance provider does your company offer? (ie. UHC, Aetna, BCBS, etc)

like

More Posts

Just received a verbal offer from KPMG in Atlanta for FDD as an experienced associate. 75k salary and 5k signing. Is this a reasonable offer? Should I try to negotiate for more? Given the crazy market i feel like 75k is kind of low. KPMG

like

Do brand consultants/strategists use similar framework analysis/thinking as typical consulting cases or ones that are more tailored to communications, culture, society, etc. ?

likesmart

I have my salary discussion today. Can you please advise the avg package for the associate manager in SCB. How is this role placed in the hierarchy? My total experience is 5.7 years

like

Who got rich from CCIV between Friday and today? Crazy! From $32 to 52.... Without a DA

Post Photo

 I heard a commercial on the radio for Verizon that said something to the effect that parents are now learning how to lesson plan. Are any of you off the hook for lesson planning? Just wondering because I’m over here busting my butt!

funnylikehelpful

What’s the deal with these start-ups not hiring people with actual insurance experience?

like

Can anyone give insight into interviewing at Uber? Specifically in their Internal Audit or FRM group? Uber

like

Where them 30+ ladies at? 25M 🙋‍♂️😉

funny

Situation: got an offer from firm X; highly likely to get a better offer from firm Y but official offer would take a couple of more weeks in best case scenario. However, firm X’s offer validity about to run out. Would you: (1) accept X’s offer now but rescind later if Y converts (2) ask X for additional time to decide (they’re “prestigious” and may not offer additional time...) (3) Play straight, decline X and hope Y converts (4) any other creative ideas ...???

like

McKinsey & Company Strategy& people are getting a $4500 special recognition bonus on top of the annual bonus!🤑

How are y’all firms doing?

Boston Consulting Group McKinsey & Company Kearney Oliver Wyman Roland Berger

like

Anyone familiar with the culture of working at ADIA and how they run their transactions ? Is it very team based ? Do you expect they would be very intense working culture vs someone used to NY transaction work?

Senior manager and associate partner at MBBKOW how comfortable are you in dubai? Can you afford a nice house, car and generally (within reason) not worry about money?

Assume wife works as manager in big 4 consulting

like

Any pointers on which practice areas at BCG Dubai has most clients in Dubai/remote work? Planning to join BCG Dubai soon and because of some personal issues, I just cannot travel outside Dubai. Will it be possible at BCG Dubai?

like
like

Seeking advice as a junior level employee in strategy land — what are your thoughts on where the agency landscape is headed now? Should I stick with it in the coming years? Should I jump ship and seek comms/brand work elsewhere?

Any and all thoughts appreciated!

like

I have a younger family member (almost 13) who is very interested in cybersecurity. How can this person learn and grow in a safe manner if he/she isn’t near a city with youth clubs and etc? Idea is to reinforce ethics, but this material is far too advanced for the parents.

like

What is EY paying at the manager level in the business design practice ?

like

I’m looking to take some certificate classes. Can anyone point me in the right direction for affordable online classes?

like

Any news from DPW? 🤔🤔

like

Is BEC doable in 2.5 weeks while working full time - 40 hours? I plan on dedicating 3 hours each weekday and 12 hours each weekend day. I most likely will also have a bit of time during working hours.

Additional Posts in Addiction & Sobriety

Wrapping up 2021...

Do you have any reflections on this year? Biggest takeaways? How will you close it out?

Drop below to share 👇

like

Pause. Breathe. Proceed.
⏸ 🌬 ▶️

like

Acceptance is the answer.

Post Photo
like

Any meditation stories on recovery anyone willing to share? Did you have break through moments during meditation?

like

How do you know when dependence turns into addiction? Where’s the line?

like

I know everyone will have different answers for this but how did you know it was time to get sober? I think it might be time for me to find a new job and pursue sobriety, but I don't feel like I'm a rock bottom which is the only time I've ever seen people really commit to it (my father). Apathy isn't the right word but I just kind of feel numb about everything and I think being sober would maybe help.

like

Covid has been hard. March 2029- December 2020 I drank a lot to cope without realizing it. January- March I didn't realize I was depressed. March I came to terms with increase and ongoing suicidal ideation and needed help.

I went into a intensive outpatient program (IOP) which has been super helpful.

During the beginning of covid I drank every day and in a great deal. January it was a "dry" month which was hard the first week but overall great.

March 2021 realized I'm clinically depressed.

like

Had a really bad day 😞 I don’t know why I keep doing this to myself. Things will be going well and then out of nowhere I get blackout drunk. I am tired of feeling sick and anxious from drinking. I don’t really even want to drink sometimes but do it anyway. Blacked out last night, and still feel sick now. I’ve never shared with anyone that I have this problem, until I found this message board. I have so much anxiety that I won’t be able to get this under control. I feel isolated and sad.

like

First in-person retreat in a while coming up and first for me at this particular firm. Several people have mentioned that much of the bonding etc happens while drinking. I am newly sober and now worried about being in this environment, any tips for making it through the weekend? Similar experiences?

like

I went to the lease this last weekend. Not one drop of alcohol was had. That was the closest I’ve come to caving. 4 wheelers, killing dinner with big guns, doing manly things in God’s country. Beer is an absolute necessity during these events. Anyhow, I didn’t drink. Proud of myself. Monumental moment for me.

likeuplifting

Any interest in doing a daily reflections thread? In the spirit of rotation one of us would be responsible for posting the link and kicking off the share for a month at a time??

like

Daily Reflection 1/21

Post Photo
like

Has anyone ever messed up at a company party because of alcohol?

like

Hi. So grateful for this bowl! I’m 16 months sober. Fairly new to ACN just curious what types of challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them?

like

Just taking the opportunity to get current. Sober 3 years and 10 months. This past couple weeks have been stressful and my mind slipped into fantasizing about my drug of choice. Last week I flipped out at some of my wife's family. I did an amends and I think time will heal this one. It's all up to HP. Although I have neglected my morning practice this week, I'm practicing self compassion with positive self talk.

like

Have been sober for many years but currently relapsed and am in a downward spiral. I’m close to losing my family but I can’t seem to get my head together. Feel like I need a few months out, maybe take some time off work… has anyone done similar and did it help?

like

I'm new to this group so please forgive me if this is not appropriate. I've been trying to cut back on my drinks so have tried this no-groni kit from Seedlip. Pretty good.

Post Photo
like

Hello to all,
If you need someone to save from addiction we can try.
Just contact me

like

Downloaded the “Days” app. No frills, no extras. Just a number staring you in the face. I’ve made it almost habitual to open and check... even multiple times a day when I know the day counter hasn’t changed, but it’s helping and encouraging. Each day is a sense of accomplishment and a win over the pull of my own thoughts. Forcing my willpower into further restraint. 10 days strong so far.

like

I joined a new team and have noticed something off with my Director over the last months (slurring speech, no show to calls or even full days of work). I finally asked a colleague about it today because I’m concerned about my Director. She confirmed that she’s noticed the same over the last few years, but no one ever says anything. In confidence she told me she can often smell alcohol. How can I help? I feel helpless. I’ve already lost someone to addiction and I can’t ignore this. Any advice?

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal