Head hunger was a real problem for me pre-op and I didn't even know it! So post-op I learned that I feel head hunger for several different reasons during the day and each one needs to be dealt with differently.
1. Routine, when it is lunch time I used to eat even if I woke late & had breakfast 1-2 hours ago, I would eat because it was 'time' to eat. Now the routine is to wait 3-4 hours between meals. This keeps me from eating just for the sake of eating.
2. Boredom. I would be really bored and sit and think, hmm what can I make. I am a really creative cook so I would dream up elaborate things and then HAVE to make it right then. Now, I still dream up new things when I am bored but now I write the ideas down and plan to make them later in the week for a scheduled meal. Also, I browse shops on the internet when bored and find new clothes/accessories I want. I also browse for books on Amazon and add them to my wish list!
3. Thirst. I read a scientific study that said that most (70% I think) obese people can not distinguish thirst from hunger. I am definately one of those people. Now, when I think I might be hungry I grab a glass of water and drink several sips. Most of the time my 'hunger' goes away and I feel fine. Sometimes, rarely actually, it comes back in 15 minutes, then I know it is 'real' hunger.
4. Emotional cravings. These are tricky because I have always used food to soothe me. I was always given a special treat when I had a bad day. So when things are bad, I want to eat something special. Post-op I have learned a few things that 'feel' special, like a beautiful steak and I keep supplies for a steak dinner in the freezer so I can have that when I want a special meal. I still love food and enjoy eating so I think ahead and plan 'treats' for myself that are healthy, well balanced and a bit of luxury. I can still take comfort in a jacket potato cooked in a hot oven with a crispy skin, I just make sure it is a small one and use only a touch butter instead of half a stick. I feel like I have come a long way because I no longer abuse myself with food, eating until I am painfully full and loading myself up with empty calories.
It is all about learning the tricks you head plays on you related to hunger. I hardly ever feel hungry anymore, maybe a few times a week at most. I schedule my meals and snacks so that I shouldn't face real hunger very often and that really helps keep me from eating convenience food (stuff full of empty calories and fat) or eating too much.
HTH,
Nic
