Luke 12:29 & 30 “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. 30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. 31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.
I sometimes wonder why I do so great at resisting food temptations during the day, but when the evening comes I seem to be starved and get the munchies? Why do I sometimes feel like I could clean out the refrigerator? When I feel this way I seem to do it nearly mindlessly? IT is so frustrating to think that I can do so well at resisting most temptations during the day, even when no one is around. Then, around 11 p.m. I'll be relaxing and watching a great Hallmark Channel movie and suddenly I am overwhelmed with ravenous a munchy attack! Then the bag of chips, way--way in the other room, on the uppermost shelf, will start whispering my name. Sometimes my nose will play tricks on my mind and think it smells microwave popcorn.
Most of the time, I pray away the urges. Sadly, on occasion, I give in and scarf down enough snack food to feed an entire kindergarten class. Aaahhhh!
Just recently I was reading an article from SparkPeople.com. The author of the article explained evening binges this way:
Is Evening Eating Destroying Your Weight Loss Efforts?Cues to Eating and How to Control Them
*by Becky Hand at SparkPeople.comBalanced breakfast? CheckMid-morning snack? CheckHealthy lunch with your co-workers? CheckPassing up your friend's homemade cookies? CheckComing home in the evening and going on a feeding frenzy? CHECK!! Does this sound like the bulk of your days? You're in control, everything is going fine - until you come home starving at night and eat a large dinner, say yes to dessert (and seconds) and finish off a bag of chips before bed. What gives?
For most people, the evening is "down-time," used to relax, watch television, and unwind from the stresses of the day. Others view this as a time to multi-task and catch up on household chores, bills, homework, and other responsibilities. Whether you're winding down or checking off your to-do list, unconscious eating can accompany your routine and result in a massive calorie intake. Devouring a bag of chips, a sleeve of cookies, or a pint of ice cream can occur when your mind is somewhere else.
Put An End to the Evening Binge Cycle!
You CAN control evening eating disasters. Try these tips to normalize sleeping patterns and fend off hunger:Plan activities to do throughout the evening, but don't make food a part of the activity:Take a bathWalk the dogPay bills; balance the checkbookPlay board games with the kidsCall a friendKeep your hands busy (polish the silver, sew, knit, or do any craft)Play basketball, baseball, soccerRead a book or magazineTry a relaxing fitness video such as yoga or tai chi.Eat 3 meals daily and 1-2 planned snacks, keeping in mind your total calorie range.Plan to eat about the same number of calories at each meal throughout the day. The total should be within your calorie range.Have a low-calorie beverage (diet soda, flavored water, etc.) in the evening.Make a list of low-calorie snack options. Select one for the evening. Eat it, but no more.Don't eat mindlessly! Eat all meals and snacks at the kitchen table, keeping all of your attention on the food you're enjoying. Take your time and really enjoy every bite.Get 7-8 hours of sleep nightly.Maintain a regular bed and wake time schedule, even on the weekend.Establish a regular, relaxing bedtime routine.If you have trouble sleeping, leave the bed (or room) and pursue another activity like reading until you're ready to sleep. Use your bedroom only for sleep and sex.Finish eating at least two to three hours before your regular bedtime.Exercise regularly.Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime; avoid nicotine altogether*To read the full article CLICK HERE
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