How to Bounce Back from a Binge

You were doing so well on your diet! Now you're covered with cookie crumbs, and the remains of a container of Ben & Jerry's are melting on the coffee table. You've had another eating binge, you feel awful, and you're ready to give up. But you can bounce back. Many people falter several times during a weight-loss program and still attain their goals.

Why We Binge

Losing weight is hard work. We're all tempted by our favorite foods at times, especially if we've eliminated them from our diets. We've all had horrible days when we fall into the soothing arms of our old eating patterns. And foods rich in carbohydrates (the most common binge "triggers") raise our levels of serotonin, which makes us feel sedated.

How To Bounce Back

Having a binge doesn't mean you're a failure, or that you'll never be able to lose weight. It means you're human. Humans make mistakes. So take a deep breath, and forgive yourself. Do something not food related that makes you feel good -- run a hot bath, take a walk, watch a favorite TV show.