Wow, I’ve never heard a description of my habits so spot on before. I don’t overeat when I’m sad, it’s when I’m feeling good. And I eat until the food is gone, not till I’m full. I’m only full and don’t feel like eating more about half an hour after I’ve stopped eating.
👆 this. Turns out eating 80 million calories (I don't eat junk but this is still an ikkle wikkle bit excessive) the night before really helps me cycle fast and for a long time. Who knew? My "health plan" wasn't in any leaflets I read*. Acceptance in this case, I tried and realised at bit of a compulsive addictive personality "drive" really helped me in my entrepreneurial life on the one hand had also actually damaged the hinges on our fridge door, I realised I could deal with the consequence, almost every time, so I do that. It took me to my mid forties to nail it. I feel great at 53 as a result. *=Not read.
I hear you, I don't eat when I'm sad. I eat all the time. I just enjoy food. It doesn't help I'm a nurse who works night shift along with being in college full-time. It makes it hard to cook proper meals. So I find myself eating out a lot.
I'm a 28-year-old guy with a 7-8 year history of eating disorders. I really admire your ability to talk about this with such confidence, conviction, openness and honesty. It took me a long time, although I've found it much easier to discuss since I told everyone how much I was struggling. I think we, in this fitness community, are at especially high risk. For me, everything started with tracking my calories. For a long time, it worked well. After a while, it became unhealthy. I demonised certain foods, ate others in crazy quantities, often under-ate and then found myself on an uncontrolled binge. (A detail, but my binges were usually huge quantities of healthy foods rather than ever going for the naughty treats.) To be completely honest, part of the reason why I started training for triathlons was probably so I could eat more! Now I love my training and my eating habits are reasonably OK, but I still sometimes feel like I'm not totally in control. It's those unintended, unanticipated, unplanned raids of the fridge and cupboards that really frustrate me. Like you say so accurately: I don't want it, I don't need it, I don't even really enjoy it... but there I am eating handfuls of cornflakes and a dipping breadsticks in peanut butter. Anyway, to the point I wanted to add: good basic habits have really helped me. Setting simple guiding rules. I try to always eat sitting down, at the table or maybe on the sofa, so that I'm not just grazing around the kitchen. Eat from a plate, not direct from the container. Keep meals light enough that I do have spare calories for lots of snacking. I know I'll want to snack around meals. I'll allow myself to do so. Everyone has a different way and it's not easy, but I hope this video and the positive comments help others. I am certainly always happy to help anyone I can. Thanks as always, Mark.
No movie clips, no fancy edits, not even that many laughs! But I got asked the same questions a lot so thought I'd knock this out to address them. Feel free to skip if donuts are not your cup of tea. (mmmmmmmm tea flavoured donuts! 🍩 ) oh, and binging was 100% vegan - as a few people have asked! No animals harmed in the gluttony.
Thank you for openly sharing your struggles with eating, depression and anxiety etc. It is great to see others share these issues as well, I have tried to be very open about my similar struggles over the last 4 years of a very unpleasant divorce, and it’s still a world where we get labelled and people seem to identify us with that label and have trouble looking past it. People like you (and I) continuing to be open an honest about these issues only helps others. I also appreciate how you don’t say “it’s ok to be fat, love the body you have”. While I strongly believe there is negative aspects of body shaming, and negative aspect of expecting to look like body builders and movie stars, I don’t like to support the movement of it’s ok to be over weight, it’s not healthy, it’s not good for people, but we need to get people to see a healthy way to accept their weight issues rather than feeling shame about it. You have been doing a great job of capturing the underlying emotions that drive these bad habits. These kinds of expression is how we get people to not feel shame about their weight, how we can positively motivate people to get healthy. Great job, keep it up!
Hey Mark, just seeing this comment about the Vegan binge and it struck if you had snacks or food around like a Pepperoni Pizza that one of your kids had left in the fridge that you would consider eating that as well or does the Vegan part of your brain override the binge part of your brain. Just curious.
Thanks for this. I remember trying to explain to my girlfriend that sometimes I eat so much that the only thing I think will make me feel better is eating more, she looked at me like I was a lunatic. Reassuring to hear I'm not alone.
Yep!! Cant even remember how many times I've started to regret the binge during the binging. Then throw the food away and decide to stop this and after a hour or so come back to see the trash bin for something to eat. Yes.. that is how low you can go with this. Seems to be more common then I've realized after reading some comments. Now at the age of 43 I've realized that it is something I'll have to live with the rest of my life. Good video! Thanx for sharing these things with all of us!
As someone who has lost many family and friends to addiction, this helped me understand what they were feeling... "The core of addiction is about not wanting to be present in your life, because your life is too painful a place to be, this is also the core of suicide"...
Thanks Mark, you completely described my relationship with food and binge eating over the past 20 years. I find myself a 39 year old who really just started running again in Nov. I was over 260 pounds before Christmas, im down 45 pounds. Just finished my first race of the year, did 10k in 52.10. Your videos have been hugely helpful for my own motivation. Keep it up.
Getting hooked on these videos. I like having someone with a lot of the same thought processes as I do. I'm 64 and have lost 75 lbs over the last 6 months. Diet, biking and not giving up because I fail off the wagon. Was nice hearing how you are human like the rest of us.
I can't really effectively communicate how much this struck a note with me. It's basically my life, from the 3am "that's it no more" conversations with myself, to ordering kettlebells while waiting for Dominos. It's fucking heartbreaking. I'm at the other end of the spectrum to you, as I am now 7lbs away from being so large I qualify for my own postcode, on all manner of pills and banging my head against the wall of wanting to go back to the me that worked out 4 times a week and tracked every calorie, from breakfast to air sniffed outside a kebab shop. You've given me hope. Which, as we know, you can have as much as you like and not exceed your daily allowance.
This resonates so well with me. I'm fit, I run, cycle do triathlons etc and I look healthy. When I tell people I eat too much sweet food, they probably think I eat a regular sized chocolate bar every other day. In fact, I'm more likely to sit down and binge eat a whole family trifle to myself, following by the whole pack of chocolate biscuits that were meant for later in the week simply because they are there. I've just lost about 10 pounds in a week due to feeling unwell (not diet related). Not the best way to lose weight, but now that I'm here and my appetite is suppressed, I want to control my eating a bit better. Your comments will hopefully give me a new outlook and encourage me to stay motivated after I inevitably fall off the wagon next time.
Absolutely this. My wife always moans that its always her buying the snacks and the treats, and I eat them. That's the whole point. I don't buy them because for me biscuits don't come in any other portion size than all of them. I'd be quite happy eating the whole box of breakfast bars when I get up, then going to work and eating my lunch behind the desk at 9:30, then have to go to macdonalds at lunch as I'm hungry again. Then I realise we need cat food, and buy that and a share bag of doritos which I eat in the car on the way home. Then I'm depressed for a week because my running isn't going the way I want.
I got way too lean 1 year ago, basically starving without realizing it. Then I started doing weekly cheat days followed by 6 days of extreme restriction which basically gave me a binge eating disorder. I managed to maintain my weight for another 8 months while still binging every couple weeks and subsequently restricting again. However these last three months it has been at least one massive binge per week and I’m not trying to restrict anymore because I know that’s a huge part of the problem. I’ve averaged about a pint of ice cream every two days for the last two months among many, many other things; it’s almost frightening the amount of food I can eat in a day. Gained about 30 pounds but I was so lean that I’m still in a healthy range. Doesn’t help that I’m an ice cream maker as well. It’s a nasty habit that started as a physical need then turned into a psychological one. I recommend the book Brain Over Binge, it helped me see some of my unhealthy habits. I believe we can make binge eating something of the past and not something that we have to work around and feel powerless about.
I can't explain how much of a relief (if that's the right word) to hear that this is something that other people have experienced. Over the past 2 years I have regularly (as in at least once or twice a week, sometimes daily) made a cup of coffee, opened a (large) packet of biscuits (usually chocolate digestives or similar) with the intention of eating a couple, and finishing the entire packet within minutes, then feeling sick and ashamed afterwards 😔
Hi Richard, sorry if this reply is a year late! I also have no off switch, once I've had that first biscuit, then I'll finish the packet, then every sweet thing in the fridge, then the breakfast cereals, then the cooking chocolate. I can't think of anything except all the sweet foods in the house until I've eaten them all. My solution is to not have sweet things in the house, at all. I stopped buying biscuits and crunchy nut cornflakes and I don't bake cakes anymore. I hope you're well and in control. Take care!
I love that you talk about this topic. I think this happens more often among athletes than actually gets talked about. I think you nailed it with these 3 things though.
The thing is athletes get to be high functioning binge eaters - in the way that the school run mum can be wasted most of the day but appear they are holding it together to the outside world. People just assume that because an athlete looks in shape and does activities that suggests they are, that everything behind the scenes must be perfect. Just like the mum rocking up at the school gates on time every day.
Ah man, glad you can talk about this, you could literally be describing my life - except I'm so far from being in shape its depressing. Since becoming a dad nearly 3 years ago I've gained back the 20kgs I worked so hard to loose in my mid-20's - all through repeated episodes of stress related binges. Parenthood, pandemic, forced homeworking and constant low self esteem as a result of making such bad choices are one hell of a cocktail for making more seemingly involuntary bad choices. Its like an autopilot seems to take over and you have no ability to switch it off, you know its wrong, you know the right thing to do but its just impossible to pull the ejector seat. I recently opened up with my wife last week, it was difficult and scary to admit to her just how bad it had got but it was such a liberating experience and hoping this will be the start of the recovery back to where I want to be but as you say, the beast will always be there, just need to accept it and develop ways to not let it take you down. Cheers Mark - great honest content
I don't know if I've commented on this video, but, even if I have, I'll comment again (well, I've watched it about 3 times, so it would be appropriate!) Sounds like you have created for yourself what they call in mental health terms, a WRAP plan - a wellness recovery action plan. Folks put these in place when they are well in anticipation of the times they are unwell, Also, you acceptance of the binges, observing them and then moving on, is very much a mindful approach (acknowledge, observe, but don't get "lost" in them). I really do applaud you for making this video, for lots of reasons. I don't "save" many videos to my library but I have saved this. Best wishes from a fellow traveller. xx
I've got 110 pounds to lose and finding your channel has been an absolute god send. You somehow manage to package exactly how I feel about this stuff and give common sense advice for a problem that seems to defy common sense. Thank you SO much.
This hit home. The way you described binge eating is where I am. The mentality after a bad day of I'll start Monday. Finally a fitness influencer that gets it. Thank you
For me the brain over binge method works the best. I am unable to accept these kinds of binges anymore as they affect my health and wellbeing. The day after I feel worse than a hangover. I sincerely believe this is a habit pattern that is possible to break, eventhough in the beginning it feels impossible! Trust me I know that feeling!
The NHS website list of symptoms of binge eating disorder is an interesting one. I think most people if you asked them would say they did NOT have such a disorder, yet there is one item on that list that IMO most people do pretty often - eating when not hungry.
Like you've mentioned before about fitness influencers, it's easy to feel that anything less than perfection is a failure. I struggle too with binge eating and it can lead to my whole week being ruined. Thanks for the perspective it helps!
I can totally relate to this. Thanks for posting. There are times I have an iron will, only to lose it in just a few minutes or an hour. I am not unhealthy overall, but I hate how my bingeing thwarts my ambitious athletic goals. I will replay this video several times.
I have exactly the same habits, frenzied eating, hiding my eating,etc. You explain it perfectly. But I have times when things are in control, exercising keeps my sanity. However, I keep moving forward.
I've watched your food/eating videos multiple times as someone who struggles with the same. Sometimes I can correct it after a day, most often it's weeks or months. Thanks for the reminder that we're not alone, and that the "what's the point" narrative is harming our ability to get out of the dark place.
Thank you for this video! You've put into words a feeling that I am all to familiar with. I started watching your videos a couple of weeks ago and they have inspired me to try getting healthier. I'm already seeing positive results!
This happened to me in November last year. Because of Mark I’ve lost 10 pounds. I’ve climbed alpe du Zwift Almost weekly now because of him. Now I have a goal to break 60 mins on that climb this year. I think the missing piece is this very topic of binge eating. I live off binging because of my work schedule in the ER is so erratic and stressful. Keep watching he’s an amazing dude.
This is eye opening. I hadn’t considered what happens to me as an eating disorder before. I can train up and execute an Ironman, but this gets me 2-4 times a week. Completely helpless in the face of it’s power.
Holy sh*t, so much of this resonated with me. Exactly matches so much if the ridiculous food binging I've done for years. Particularly the part about still being triggered when You're happy a d things are going well. I managed to drop 16lbs over the last couple of months after getting back up near my heaviest and the last week has been slipping back to disorderd eating. So hard to explain but this video goes a long way! Thanks.
Seriously man, your realism is incredibly inspirational. I’m vegan until it falls apart. I eat well until I don’t. I’ve always banged out the workouts, but the in your head eating part is a lifelong grind. Thanks for the channel.
Thanks, Mark. You've given me a lot to digest 😉 here. Scheduling your training while waiting for the burgers. I'm getting a faint glimmer of the value of acceptance AND structuring what comes after the binge. I used to find habits around food and fitness (I call 'em practices - hey, whatever works) boring, make that threatening.... Today I've got 2,135 consecutive days of doing 30 proper push ups ( still did 'em with a broken arm, a few yrs ago, just one armed against the wall or on the floor from the side until I could use both arms again). That consistency come hell or high water has taught me I can keep that commitment to myself. Now with some 10 pounds gained in the last yr and barely getting it to budge, I signed on with an online training program. I knew I needed support, structure and a pro. Consistency, and as you say, less with the self-loathing and rose-coloured glasses. Very helpful share. Thanks again
The part about thinking about how much I haven't enjoyed the food and how bad I feel, before then going and grabbing more food is so spot on. Great video as usual!
I'm a skinny girl that was very underweight at one point and I still struggle to put on healthy weight, especially muscle. However, I was eating while watching this video and it resonated with me, because I was a binge eater for years despite being underweight. Just like you described, I always eat fast and don't stop until I feel sick. My partner has to remind me to be aware if I'm full and it's still hard to feel where the line is crossed, because your brain demands the plate, the pot, the cup, the package to be finished. So, for the first time in a while, I actually put the fork down when I felt that I got past the point of being full. Your video got me to realize I don't need to try to fix it like a control freak, because shaming and controlling just doesn't work either way and it's just a part of my life I can accept and work with little by little you know. So, thanks!
Thank you, it’s so true… if I’ve eaten more of something that isn’t the healthiest, it’s easy to think “ oh well I might as well finish it all off “, or “ it’s not worth saving this small amount of leftovers for another day” but you don’t want to throw it away “ food is expensive” so do that with every meal everyday… and before long you’ve put on the poundage and are wondering “ how u got there”… thx for your help
Great description on binging. I too try to offset the bad days with long distance runs. Something that helps me is recognizing when i've ordered too much and throw items in the trash. Money is already spent, but better for my body if it's gone.
I appreciate this a lot. I struggled and still sometimes struggle with binge eating. Glad to hear someone else has been through this. Coach Greg's meals have been killer for making those binges low calorie when they happen
Hello Mark. I stumbled upon your channel about a week ago and have been enjoying so much of your content. I am 56 and so much of what you’re presenting resonates with me. I am trying to create some habits that hopefully will lead me to being more fit and happily healthy. A bit like you, I changed careers to follow a heartfelt passion. I was an attorney for 26 years, and left that all behind about 4 years ago to focus on my guiding restorative yoga classes and guided meditation. I made the right decision with my vocation. I would like to complement this change with leaving behind long-established dietary choices and inconsistent (if not non-existent) fitness habits. So….all that to say, Thank you! I have been sharing your channel with a number of friends. Peace ✌🏽
I took up cycling and endurance sports 12 years ago. Years of being thin and great fitness. Sruggling with my why now. Thank you for talking about this today. My dad had passed away recently and my cycling buddy is buying a mororcycle. 1 thing I know is that a good Zwift session cheers up the mood. I have a weird relationship with food. I am eating bad currently. Binging would probably describe it. Trying to stop now before i make big steps back. Thank you!
Thanks for this. As a man who has had a lifelong history of disordered eating this is helpful to hear. It isn't something that is talked about, and it is good to see that we are not alone. Psychotherapy has been the answer for me, but at 55 it is something to manage as I don't think "recovery" is possible. Trying to explain it to people can be a frustrating process. The "Stupid" "lazy" resonates. Using exercise as a way of mitigating and regulating is also something I do and have done, but now try and mitigate this to stop getting injured. The difficulty is that my (our) addiction is to a substance (food) which is essential to life. Really like all your podcasts. Cheers.
I really value this video. I don’t have any trouble with food but I’ve tried to help a few people because they thought I had the answer for them (I’ve always been lean). It’s so much more about psychology than most people understand.
This is so good and describes my situation perfectly. Even watched it at 11.20 at night eating peanut butter on toast and chocolate biscuits. It's made so much sense. Well done on a great subject.
Your description of compulsion is really great and helpful in conveying the reality to people that don't have whatever compulsion is being talked about. Another one I use sometimes is "Sit down in a chair for one hour without touching your face".
8:40 - This! Binging explained to a 't' - I've been down this path as well. I've run multiple marathons and tend to extremity when trying to fix an issue. In retrospect, I think I was trying to outrun a food addiction in the same way a lot of people try and out earn really poor spending discipline. That doesn't apply to all, but did to me. Appreciate the real talk, Mark. Big fan of the channel.
You continue to make a LOT of sense, Mark. Not only can I relate this to my binge eating but also my binge drinking. This video doesn’t excuse my poor drinking/eating habits but it does help me keep them in context of the bigger picture ie the many days of good nutrition, exercise and not drinking myself into mess.
Had some struggles with my own eating and this is pretty much the concept that I have taken to heart recently to try to make my health and weight change for the better. If I have a bad weekend, that's fine, but I still get up and workout on Monday and do what I can from there. The extra cookie or pizza Saturday night is not worth throwing my whole week away, recognize I stepped back a bit and then just keep going in the direction I intended.
Thanks for sharing that Mark, I can relate to so much of what you said, both in the past and in the present. I "peaked" at 127kg a few years ago, I've been down to 79kg and now I'm up at 95kg, working hard to get back into the 80's but as you know, it isn't easy.
One of the best descriptions and most sensible approaches to binge eating I've come across. And it's been at least three weeks since I've inhaled a bag of licorice allsorts.
Thank you so very much for this! I have felt like this for 8 years. I’m lucky to be in a place like you where I exercise, not overweight but I get these exact urges once a week/fortnight. To look at you and hear this makes me feel so much better that not all is lost when these uncontrollable times happen. Thank you
I have never been diagnosed with BED, but I certainly recognize myself in some of the descriptions you use. I absolutely don’t have it figured out, but I’ve tried a few things that at least work sometimes. 1. Recognizing that, for me, some foods have no brakes (once I start, it is incredibly hard to stop) and trying to keep these food out of the house. It’s far easier for me to have no chocolate than just one chocolate. 2. Recognizing triggers (if I’m really sleepy, I’ll automatically reach for sweets and, because I’m so tired, I won’t have the willpower to stop). 3. Break into the cycle wherever I can (eating 3 servings of chocolate is bad, continuing to eat more is worse). This might be as simple as doing a chore like getting the mail or changing the laundry, or it might involve taking a bath ( which will force me out of the food environment).
Wow! Sure you have to have a disclaimer like yours in the beginning, that you are not a doctor etc. - but then you deliver something that imho is much more helpful to all the people who can relate to the described problem than any doctor out there. As one can see in the comments, this video is a great act of humanity. Thank you very much.
Along with binge eating, bipolar and epilepsy meds I ended up at 165kg... down 20kg now , it's nice hearing others who have really been at this brick wall and it being not easy to manage.
It’s nice to hear someone able to articulate this. I fluctuate every 12/18 months, being really fit and healthy at 80-85kg and then binge for 6 or so months until I get to 100-105kg before I pull my shit together. The binge period and subsequent struggle back is accompanied by frequent bouts of depression and self doubt. I find it impossible to explain to people how I feel when I’m struggling and often put on a goggins type mask. I’m currently 98kg and working back down to my athletic weight, Iv not tried acceptance but maybe this time that is the key, along with preparation.
Too right on this one. Weekends for me are binges of 3-4k and Mon to Friday is just under maintenance. It hangs in the balance at the moment just need to fine tune a bit to loose weight. Just getting into your channel it's awesome and you're a very good communicater. I've started rowing this week and you've inspired me to get running too although slowly like you did when you started out.
Fantastic explanation, Mark. I really like the polarisation of behaviour idea combined with the proactive response to the acceptance that there will be binges. Dealing with what you can do rather than wallowing in 'I've failed' is just so positive and, more importantly, productive. Thank you.
Love your work as always. What I appreciate most is where you've come from. Over my life from the UK, to South Africa where I grew up, to Australia, from boarding school, to the military, to a sedentary career in IT, my purely anecdotal experience is that Personal and Fitness Trainers all come from a background as a sporty kid. They simply can't relate, and whether consciously or unconsciously, judge the overweight, unfit lump as lazy, low in self-control, undisciplined. Personally when I was at Boarding School at 7, you were punished if you didn't finish your food. As in caned. And punished psychologically if you didn't finish fast (last one clears the dishes). My family wasn't well off either, so there was a constant calculation as to how to get the most (food) for the least (money). In the Air Force, food was fuel. Again, quantity and speed were prioritised. So as an adult I found it almost impossibly difficult not to: order the largest meal on the menu (always the best value), or take the most my plate could hold; And eat it as quickly as possible, finishing (to my dog's disappointment) every last scrap. I'm not lazy, and I'd say not really stupid either. There are simply deep seated psychological triggers that drive my behaviour. And as you so eloquently put it, nothing is stopping the eating when it happens. I'm aware of the triggers, but have no more power over them than not breathing. It's been a journey. I love your principles - certainly for maintaining weight. I'm still in the losing weight camp, and I find fasting is what works for me (I'm also not a doctor, nor nutritionist so don't take my advice and YMMV). I just find it easier to not eat than to reduce my plate size. I also choose to enjoy food when I am eating. I plan it. I socialise. I also know that I can't eat too much on the days I break my fast, because I'll be ill. And weighing myself every morning allows me to manage my eating over the day.
Like others, I've struggled with this since I was a kid, sent it to my wife and parents. My mum in particular watched it and was shocked. Numerous times I've tried to explain and she's simply never understood why I eat like I do. Thank you.
Excellent work as always Mark. I see myself in this video and it's something I've struggled with all my life. I used to beat myself up for my lack of control, or for being weak. I severely restricted food until my hair started falling out and I was too tired to stand. I've eaten so much so often that I topped out close to 23 stone. I still battle daily. I can sail along for a month then end up in a car wreck of junk food and sugar. It's an addiction to a substance we must take in small doses daily. Learning to live with that reality and working to ring-fence these episodes is the only way forward.
This is a brilliant video. You have articulated your understanding and perspective so very well. The description of hidding in the bushes with a pair of binoculars and accepting , calmly, what you see while planning ahead is a great mind set.
Thanks for this video Mark! I just recently found your channel (the Rowing video piqued my interest as a former rower myself it was fun watching you battle my nemesis the 2K ) I am a similar build to you (6’7” sitting around 250 lbs) and this video hit home. The frustration at being unable to keep myself from polishing off an entire box of my kids Oatmeal Cream pies, whole boxes of Oreos, a pizza and then a few too many beers and the dealing with the self hatred is something I’ve struggled with for a while. I was almost 300 lbs a couple of years ago but dropped down right before the pandemic but never got enough control on my CICO to get where I wanted to be. I really appreciate your content and am excited to have a great resource and inspiration to watch. Keep it up and thanks for all the content!
I suffer with random uncontrollable eating which never makes sense to me, so I found this extremely enlightening 1. Pulling into Tesco on the way home from work to eat pastries in the car before getting home (all in secret). Often I don’t even realise I’ve made the choice to do it 2. Eating a grand Big Mac meal before getting home only to find we had ordered McDonald’s for dinner. Eating the second round without the family knowing and more alarming, not feeling it was a big issue I now count calories using a app and everything is going really well, losing weight, running further and benching more. But I still get urges to binge and I thought it was just me. Thank you for posting this Mark, it’s made me feel a lot better 👍
I really appreciate this! I’m in the process of trying to reach the next level in my weight loss. Diet has been the biggest thing so I appreciate that you’ve been through this and shared your input.
Another fantastic video, Mark - you specialise in giving me and others lightbulb moments of insight on what makes you tick and, in a lot of cases, make us tick too. This one really resonated for me personally.
Bless you again TH-cam man. I don’t like quoting segments but I spat out some food and laughed out loud when you said “I’d already eaten all the cake.” Bearing in mind that I’ve struggled with food for 20 years and I’m sat alone eating food that I arguably don’t need. But, I ran 15km for the first time today and I’ve just dipped below 100kg. I should have guessed that I was going to have a hard time with food after I was nicknamed the garbage disposal at a young age at family events 😢
Great relatable vid. My biggest downfall with binge-eating is the scenario where I've had a shocking night's eating and I start thinking, "Well I've f%$ked it now, might was well keep going since today's a write-off". I have strategies (alternative foods, mindfulness exercises) but often, the binge wins.
That actually made me a little weepy. It's the first time I've heard someone explain how I feel, without even knowing me. The compulsion is real, it's devastating and demoralizing. Thanks for articulating the circumstance of your condition.
Your comment about the last fry made me laugh. I have the same issue - brought up to clean the plate. My diet (keto/low carb) allows me to eat larger portions without putting on weight. I find that I can get back on track after a binge through intermittent fasting.
Great video. I have all of the symptoms of BED and I can relate to pretty much everything you said. People assume that as I’m only 80kg that I’m all good and I need to chill out. Little do they know I’m eating discounted pastries in a Co op car park at 10pm in secret. Another issue I find is that I’ll overeat on most days and when a genuine occasion arises, such a birthday or a celebration I hold back as I feel I’m not “allowed” to enjoy myself. Brains are mad aren’t they!
Hi Mark. Just wanted to say thanks for the content u are creating. I find your videos interesting, entertaining and motivational. A lot of what you say and do really resonates with me. I found your channel a couple of weeks ago and have been working through your back catalogue. I barely ever comment on videos, but felt compelled to on at least one of yours. I am pretty active and do a lot of what you make videos about, and it is great to see your approach. Thanks to you I did my first Park Run last weekend. And finished above average! All the best mate. Paul
Hi Mark. This is a superb video and very honest, which is where we need to be to to have any chance of succeeding. I have recently ( after many failed attempts over the past 2 years) put some steps in place to help with weight loss and my demons. I am T2 diabetic and 5 years ago lost a load of weight under NHS supervision. I was and still am very happy about that time in my life, unfortunately over the last 2 years I have gained half of my weight lost. I have tried many times to address this but, I have the breaking strain of a soggy Kit Kat😩So last week after a weekend chat with my wife, I saw my nurse and asked her for help. This is pivotal ( at least I think) to make my plan work so fingers crossed in a few months time I will be back to cycling, ultra marathons and, maybe even be able to swim. Your videos are always balanced, funny and informative. Please keep up the good work, and good luck in yours, your wife's and Nixons future ventures 🤞👍
Just watched this video, made so much sence to me, I am a 41year old who weighs over 25st and got my first half marathon in 8 weeks and my whole life I have been eating just the way you described, just found your channel and loving the videos
Thank you so much for sharing what works for you and the journey you've been on Mark. You're so brave (and your humour is spot on)! It definitely helps people who are thinking they're the only ones with similar struggles. I'm in a very strange circumstance. I completely binge on junk (mostly in evenings but can be anytime I'm alone really) but appear healthy because I'm skinny. I know some people might think cool(!) but it's unhealthy and links to a whole cascade of other unhealthy habits that drag my mental health down. I don't purge by vomiting or exercise to stay thin - my genetics help me there (I'm 37 with 2 kids if that means anything). But being thin gives me almost less motivation to stop binging if that makes sense. Because I can get away with it more(?). I just run (inconsistently) to stay sane. But the lack of self control, the guilt and empty promises made around midnight I totally get. Have you (or anyone on here with similar struggles) ever considered it to be a form of self harm? I've never cut or physically harmed my body externally but if I'm shovelling unhealthy food in, surely that equates to self harm? Well, here's to all the humans out there with struggles. Let's be kind to ourselves... and each other!
Just watched your Boris/body shaming/obesity video and saw you do view it as self harm. Btw, the video you reference in it where you "shame" your previous fat self was the first video of yours I watched and I'm hooked. Sent it to my hubby and we've got the same views. And sense of humor!
I understand the lack of motivation when you appear in shape. I found it easier in sole ways when I was bigger because it was an obvious (and embarrassing) reminder. I can now put on 20lbs and no one would even know….. so why not? 😁. Brain is a funny old thing!
@@AlexaPohl thanks signposting me to this other video. One of the things I love about Mark is the way he articulates issues that we all struggle with, and at the same time demonstrating that we can steer around the rocks of our own issues, by steering around his.
Thank you for this honesty. Like many others watching and commenting, I've gone through my own cycles of binging and purging. Hearing it from others is always so helpful. A few years back, I discovered a chap called David Clark and his book 'Out There'. He was an ultra runner who pulled himself back from the brink of death due to his alcohol and food consumption. Well worth a read. He has done a few Rich Roll podcasts too that are with a listen. Thanks again.
knowing and accepting oneself is one of the amazing developments of aging into the wisdom. control is then part of the flow. excellent video, once again.
Mark! I can’t thank you enough for that. I am 57 and apparently ‘successful’. I have struggled with binge eating exactly as you describe all my life. I have never told anyone and just beat myself up instead. I can be fit and a good weight and in a good relationship etc. I’ve never been able to rationalise it. It’s a revelation to hear a grown ‘sensible’ ) bloke like yourself talk about it so openly and honestly. Whatever else you do in life - you have done a great thing by recording this video. I’ll try the acceptance, distance and going hard again! Hopefully without the long downward spiral. PS I’ve never had strippers at any of the kids parties but will give that a go too !)
Hi Mark thanks for sharing, I've struggled with bingging, was alchol followed by anthing that didnt move in the kitchen, at that time I was sat around, literally sat around, 5Ft 10.5 (yes point 5 :) ) and 280lbs...Jan 2019. I managed to reduced the booze, then sarted on the food first goal was 224lbs took a year, biggest thing I learnt was to enjoy the training and to be kind to myself when things went wrong, when they did i'd getting back to enjoying the training ASAP, love zwift / cycling and a bit of park run/ gym. Now a little lighter, hovering (I wish ;) ) around 210lbs have struggled for a year as cant seem to get to new goal 199lbs, why 199lbs?? just sound good :) but front of mind I remember where I was and I am NOT going back there................. BIG THANKS for the videos and motivation, keep up the good work.
Already made some big improvements on those numbers. They are always going to get harder the closer you get where you want to be! Just keep after it. 💪
Thanks so much for all your clips, I can totally hear you describing myself, I lost ten stone 15 years ago and have given up being normal and just go wi the flow like you. Thanks again
This video is really important. We’re hard-wired to feast when food is plentiful to prepare for a famine. Problem is nowadays food is always plentiful - And the food industry knows this. Its almost impossible to fight it. Is it any surprise that the food industry hires psychologists ? Great video !
Excellent perspective. You bare your burden honorably, keep striving to be your best. Great improvements have been made, great example for us watching.
I felt some of the parts of this video in my bones. I’ve got no control of my junk food bingeing really - if I’m left alone for a few hours I’ll always grab a ton of junk to eat. I will then think I need to make the money spent worth it, so will eat the way more than I want to. Maybe I’ll join you on your 12 week hardcore shred from the more recent video!
Story of my life, but like you I’ve mostly managed to keep up a high level of physical activity that tended to mask the problem. Then came older age and injuries - 10 years since last triathlon and the weight climbed and eating habits remained the same. Only had the mindset to face reality and reverse the scenario recently and it’s going well, but like many, I live with the occasional slip and plan forward. And I’ve stopped beating myself up for it (my wife does a better job of that than me anyhow 🤣). Thanks for being open and honest, appreciate the reality in your vlogs 👍
Thank you mark, I’ve always struggled with compulsive and obsessive issues which compounded with gym. Just now recovering after a month of no gym because of COVID (plus binging) I’ve found myself reassessing my relationship with health and fitness. Jeff Nippards semi recent video about obesity reaffirms your statements on certain people just not understanding, not Jeff but the comments display that attitude that I believe scares people off from even trying to be healthy.
Thanks for this video…I’ve just had one of those days which is disheartening because I currently find myself in the position you were once in….300lbs and desperate to get away from that lifestyle….thanks to your videos and zwift I’m on the “road to recovery” and I know it’s a long way to go!
Thanks for the video. The emotional tie to food is real for many. I naturally reward myself with ice cream (sugary deserts) and pizza when working out. This is built into my psyche from years of weight cutting for wrestling. If I’m being honest it’s why I workout... Recent changes have helped me. Similar to The Rock’s cheat meals, I give myself 1-2 days per weeks where I indulge in pizza / ice cream, with no guilt. Limiting the times of eating per week, my body isn’t accustomed to the crap foods so I feel like shit. This feels like a step in the right direction. Overall goal is to rid this bad relationship with crap food, but I think it’s important to not feel so bad about yourself and let the process be just that a process. It takes time. Sharing for the community. Hope this helps.
Loved this - thank you again. Totally spot on about addiction whether food, booze or anything else. Even if others ‘don’t get it’ - who cares. It’s none of my business what others think of me. Great practical advice too. I am just recovering from an achilles injury after taking up running in January. No point jacking it all in (the running) because I am unable to right now. Four days into resting, using RICE recovery method and gentle stretching.. it’s driving me a bit mad and missing my runs but acceptance is my friend so getting on with it… most of the time. 😀😀
Wow, I’ve never heard a description of my habits so spot on before. I don’t overeat when I’m sad, it’s when I’m feeling good. And I eat until the food is gone, not till I’m full. I’m only full and don’t feel like eating more about half an hour after I’ve stopped eating.
That’s me 😂
👆 this. Turns out eating 80 million calories (I don't eat junk but this is still an ikkle wikkle bit excessive) the night before really helps me cycle fast and for a long time. Who knew? My "health plan" wasn't in any leaflets I read*. Acceptance in this case, I tried and realised at bit of a compulsive addictive personality "drive" really helped me in my entrepreneurial life on the one hand had also actually damaged the hinges on our fridge door, I realised I could deal with the consequence, almost every time, so I do that. It took me to my mid forties to nail it. I feel great at 53 as a result. *=Not read.
yeah where the hell is the stop switch
I hear you, I don't eat when I'm sad. I eat all the time. I just enjoy food. It doesn't help I'm a nurse who works night shift along with being in college full-time. It makes it hard to cook proper meals. So I find myself eating out a lot.
I'm a 28-year-old guy with a 7-8 year history of eating disorders. I really admire your ability to talk about this with such confidence, conviction, openness and honesty. It took me a long time, although I've found it much easier to discuss since I told everyone how much I was struggling.
I think we, in this fitness community, are at especially high risk. For me, everything started with tracking my calories. For a long time, it worked well. After a while, it became unhealthy. I demonised certain foods, ate others in crazy quantities, often under-ate and then found myself on an uncontrolled binge. (A detail, but my binges were usually huge quantities of healthy foods rather than ever going for the naughty treats.)
To be completely honest, part of the reason why I started training for triathlons was probably so I could eat more! Now I love my training and my eating habits are reasonably OK, but I still sometimes feel like I'm not totally in control. It's those unintended, unanticipated, unplanned raids of the fridge and cupboards that really frustrate me. Like you say so accurately: I don't want it, I don't need it, I don't even really enjoy it... but there I am eating handfuls of cornflakes and a dipping breadsticks in peanut butter.
Anyway, to the point I wanted to add: good basic habits have really helped me. Setting simple guiding rules. I try to always eat sitting down, at the table or maybe on the sofa, so that I'm not just grazing around the kitchen. Eat from a plate, not direct from the container. Keep meals light enough that I do have spare calories for lots of snacking. I know I'll want to snack around meals. I'll allow myself to do so.
Everyone has a different way and it's not easy, but I hope this video and the positive comments help others. I am certainly always happy to help anyone I can.
Thanks as always, Mark.
No movie clips, no fancy edits, not even that many laughs! But I got asked the same questions a lot so thought I'd knock this out to address them. Feel free to skip if donuts are not your cup of tea. (mmmmmmmm tea flavoured donuts! 🍩 ) oh, and binging was 100% vegan - as a few people have asked! No animals harmed in the gluttony.
Deeply relates
Don't make it a habit please Mark
Thank you for openly sharing your struggles with eating, depression and anxiety etc. It is great to see others share these issues as well, I have tried to be very open about my similar struggles over the last 4 years of a very unpleasant divorce, and it’s still a world where we get labelled and people seem to identify us with that label and have trouble looking past it. People like you (and I) continuing to be open an honest about these issues only helps others. I also appreciate how you don’t say “it’s ok to be fat, love the body you have”. While I strongly believe there is negative aspects of body shaming, and negative aspect of expecting to look like body builders and movie stars, I don’t like to support the movement of it’s ok to be over weight, it’s not healthy, it’s not good for people, but we need to get people to see a healthy way to accept their weight issues rather than feeling shame about it. You have been doing a great job of capturing the underlying emotions that drive these bad habits. These kinds of expression is how we get people to not feel shame about their weight, how we can positively motivate people to get healthy.
Great job, keep it up!
Thanks for this video. This is something that many of us hide. It’s great to hear someone speak open and honestly about binging.
Hey Mark, just seeing this comment about the Vegan binge and it struck if you had snacks or food around like a Pepperoni Pizza that one of your kids had left in the fridge that you would consider eating that as well or does the Vegan part of your brain override the binge part of your brain. Just curious.
Thanks for this. I remember trying to explain to my girlfriend that sometimes I eat so much that the only thing I think will make me feel better is eating more, she looked at me like I was a lunatic. Reassuring to hear I'm not alone.
Your combo of Dad Humour and common sense advise is walked to absolute perfection. Wish more people were like you
Yep!! Cant even remember how many times I've started to regret the binge during the binging. Then throw the food away and decide to stop this and after a hour or so come back to see the trash bin for something to eat. Yes.. that is how low you can go with this.
Seems to be more common then I've realized after reading some comments.
Now at the age of 43 I've realized that it is something I'll have to live with the rest of my life.
Good video! Thanx for sharing these things with all of us!
As someone who has lost many family and friends to addiction, this helped me understand what they were feeling...
"The core of addiction is about not wanting to be present in your life, because your life is too painful a place to be, this is also the core of suicide"...
Thanks Mark, you completely described my relationship with food and binge eating over the past 20 years. I find myself a 39 year old who really just started running again in Nov. I was over 260 pounds before Christmas, im down 45 pounds. Just finished my first race of the year, did 10k in 52.10. Your videos have been hugely helpful for my own motivation. Keep it up.
Getting hooked on these videos. I like having someone with a lot of the same thought processes as I do. I'm 64 and have lost 75 lbs over the last 6 months. Diet, biking and not giving up because I fail off the wagon. Was nice hearing how you are human like the rest of us.
I can't really effectively communicate how much this struck a note with me. It's basically my life, from the 3am "that's it no more" conversations with myself, to ordering kettlebells while waiting for Dominos. It's fucking heartbreaking. I'm at the other end of the spectrum to you, as I am now 7lbs away from being so large I qualify for my own postcode, on all manner of pills and banging my head against the wall of wanting to go back to the me that worked out 4 times a week and tracked every calorie, from breakfast to air sniffed outside a kebab shop.
You've given me hope. Which, as we know, you can have as much as you like and not exceed your daily allowance.
Good luck getting back to it. Just a day at a time, focusing on the right stuff. It’s doable 👍🏼
How are you getting on, dude? You doing okay?
This resonates so well with me. I'm fit, I run, cycle do triathlons etc and I look healthy. When I tell people I eat too much sweet food, they probably think I eat a regular sized chocolate bar every other day. In fact, I'm more likely to sit down and binge eat a whole family trifle to myself, following by the whole pack of chocolate biscuits that were meant for later in the week simply because they are there. I've just lost about 10 pounds in a week due to feeling unwell (not diet related). Not the best way to lose weight, but now that I'm here and my appetite is suppressed, I want to control my eating a bit better. Your comments will hopefully give me a new outlook and encourage me to stay motivated after I inevitably fall off the wagon next time.
Absolutely this. My wife always moans that its always her buying the snacks and the treats, and I eat them. That's the whole point. I don't buy them because for me biscuits don't come in any other portion size than all of them. I'd be quite happy eating the whole box of breakfast bars when I get up, then going to work and eating my lunch behind the desk at 9:30, then have to go to macdonalds at lunch as I'm hungry again. Then I realise we need cat food, and buy that and a share bag of doritos which I eat in the car on the way home. Then I'm depressed for a week because my running isn't going the way I want.
I got way too lean 1 year ago, basically starving without realizing it. Then I started doing weekly cheat days followed by 6 days of extreme restriction which basically gave me a binge eating disorder. I managed to maintain my weight for another 8 months while still binging every couple weeks and subsequently restricting again. However these last three months it has been at least one massive binge per week and I’m not trying to restrict anymore because I know that’s a huge part of the problem. I’ve averaged about a pint of ice cream every two days for the last two months among many, many other things; it’s almost frightening the amount of food I can eat in a day. Gained about 30 pounds but I was so lean that I’m still in a healthy range. Doesn’t help that I’m an ice cream maker as well.
It’s a nasty habit that started as a physical need then turned into a psychological one. I recommend the book Brain Over Binge, it helped me see some of my unhealthy habits. I believe we can make binge eating something of the past and not something that we have to work around and feel powerless about.
I can't explain how much of a relief (if that's the right word) to hear that this is something that other people have experienced. Over the past 2 years I have regularly (as in at least once or twice a week, sometimes daily) made a cup of coffee, opened a (large) packet of biscuits (usually chocolate digestives or similar) with the intention of eating a couple, and finishing the entire packet within minutes, then feeling sick and ashamed afterwards 😔
Hi Richard, sorry if this reply is a year late! I also have no off switch, once I've had that first biscuit, then I'll finish the packet, then every sweet thing in the fridge, then the breakfast cereals, then the cooking chocolate. I can't think of anything except all the sweet foods in the house until I've eaten them all.
My solution is to not have sweet things in the house, at all. I stopped buying biscuits and crunchy nut cornflakes and I don't bake cakes anymore.
I hope you're well and in control. Take care!
I love that you talk about this topic. I think this happens more often among athletes than actually gets talked about. I think you nailed it with these 3 things though.
The thing is athletes get to be high functioning binge eaters - in the way that the school run mum can be wasted most of the day but appear they are holding it together to the outside world. People just assume that because an athlete looks in shape and does activities that suggests they are, that everything behind the scenes must be perfect. Just like the mum rocking up at the school gates on time every day.
What's up guys!!?? @Christie miss your videos!
Ah man, glad you can talk about this, you could literally be describing my life - except I'm so far from being in shape its depressing. Since becoming a dad nearly 3 years ago I've gained back the 20kgs I worked so hard to loose in my mid-20's - all through repeated episodes of stress related binges. Parenthood, pandemic, forced homeworking and constant low self esteem as a result of making such bad choices are one hell of a cocktail for making more seemingly involuntary bad choices. Its like an autopilot seems to take over and you have no ability to switch it off, you know its wrong, you know the right thing to do but its just impossible to pull the ejector seat. I recently opened up with my wife last week, it was difficult and scary to admit to her just how bad it had got but it was such a liberating experience and hoping this will be the start of the recovery back to where I want to be but as you say, the beast will always be there, just need to accept it and develop ways to not let it take you down. Cheers Mark - great honest content
I don't know if I've commented on this video, but, even if I have, I'll comment again (well, I've watched it about 3 times, so it would be appropriate!) Sounds like you have created for yourself what they call in mental health terms, a WRAP plan - a wellness recovery action plan. Folks put these in place when they are well in anticipation of the times they are unwell, Also, you acceptance of the binges, observing them and then moving on, is very much a mindful approach (acknowledge, observe, but don't get "lost" in them). I really do applaud you for making this video, for lots of reasons. I don't "save" many videos to my library but I have saved this. Best wishes from a fellow traveller. xx
I've got 110 pounds to lose and finding your channel has been an absolute god send. You somehow manage to package exactly how I feel about this stuff and give common sense advice for a problem that seems to defy common sense. Thank you SO much.
This hit home. The way you described binge eating is where I am. The mentality after a bad day of I'll start Monday. Finally a fitness influencer that gets it. Thank you
For me the brain over binge method works the best. I am unable to accept these kinds of binges anymore as they affect my health and wellbeing. The day after I feel worse than a hangover. I sincerely believe this is a habit pattern that is possible to break, eventhough in the beginning it feels impossible! Trust me I know that feeling!
The NHS website list of symptoms of binge eating disorder is an interesting one. I think most people if you asked them would say they did NOT have such a disorder, yet there is one item on that list that IMO most people do pretty often - eating when not hungry.
Like you've mentioned before about fitness influencers, it's easy to feel that anything less than perfection is a failure.
I struggle too with binge eating and it can lead to my whole week being ruined. Thanks for the perspective it helps!
so glad to have someone come out and honestly speak up on the matter. Helps deal with the guilt and self loathing. Respect. 🙏
I've been binge eating for 55 years and I still lapse. Your definition of binge eating is excellent.
I can totally relate to this. Thanks for posting. There are times I have an iron will, only to lose it in just a few minutes or an hour. I am not unhealthy overall, but I hate how my bingeing thwarts my ambitious athletic goals. I will replay this video several times.
I have exactly the same habits, frenzied eating, hiding my eating,etc. You explain it perfectly. But I have times when things are in control, exercising keeps my sanity. However, I keep moving forward.
I've watched your food/eating videos multiple times as someone who struggles with the same. Sometimes I can correct it after a day, most often it's weeks or months. Thanks for the reminder that we're not alone, and that the "what's the point" narrative is harming our ability to get out of the dark place.
Thank you for this video! You've put into words a feeling that I am all to familiar with. I started watching your videos a couple of weeks ago and they have inspired me to try getting healthier. I'm already seeing positive results!
This happened to me in November last year. Because of Mark I’ve lost 10 pounds. I’ve climbed alpe du Zwift Almost weekly now because of him. Now I have a goal to break 60 mins on that climb this year. I think the missing piece is this very topic of binge eating. I live off binging because of my work schedule in the ER is so erratic and stressful. Keep watching he’s an amazing dude.
This is eye opening. I hadn’t considered what happens to me as an eating disorder before. I can train up and execute an Ironman, but this gets me 2-4 times a week. Completely helpless in the face of it’s power.
Holy sh*t, so much of this resonated with me. Exactly matches so much if the ridiculous food binging I've done for years. Particularly the part about still being triggered when You're happy a d things are going well. I managed to drop 16lbs over the last couple of months after getting back up near my heaviest and the last week has been slipping back to disorderd eating. So hard to explain but this video goes a long way! Thanks.
Had to send this to my fiance. I have been unable to communicate my binges. This hits the nail on the head.
Seriously man, your realism is incredibly inspirational. I’m vegan until it falls apart. I eat well until I don’t. I’ve always banged out the workouts, but the in your head eating part is a lifelong grind. Thanks for the channel.
Nice to actually hear someone else admit to being vegan until it falls apart
Thanks, Mark. You've given me a lot to digest 😉 here. Scheduling your training while waiting for the burgers. I'm getting a faint glimmer of the value of acceptance AND structuring what comes after the binge.
I used to find habits around food and fitness (I call 'em practices - hey, whatever works) boring, make that threatening....
Today I've got 2,135 consecutive days of doing 30 proper push ups ( still did 'em with a broken arm, a few yrs ago, just one armed against the wall or on the floor from the side until I could use both arms again). That consistency come hell or high water has taught me I can keep that commitment to myself.
Now with some 10 pounds gained in the last yr and barely getting it to budge, I signed on with an online training program. I knew I needed support, structure and a pro. Consistency, and as you say, less with the self-loathing and rose-coloured glasses. Very helpful share. Thanks again
The part about thinking about how much I haven't enjoyed the food and how bad I feel, before then going and grabbing more food is so spot on. Great video as usual!
I'm a skinny girl that was very underweight at one point and I still struggle to put on healthy weight, especially muscle. However, I was eating while watching this video and it resonated with me, because I was a binge eater for years despite being underweight. Just like you described, I always eat fast and don't stop until I feel sick. My partner has to remind me to be aware if I'm full and it's still hard to feel where the line is crossed, because your brain demands the plate, the pot, the cup, the package to be finished. So, for the first time in a while, I actually put the fork down when I felt that I got past the point of being full. Your video got me to realize I don't need to try to fix it like a control freak, because shaming and controlling just doesn't work either way and it's just a part of my life I can accept and work with little by little you know. So, thanks!
Thank you, it’s so true… if I’ve eaten more of something that isn’t the healthiest, it’s easy to think “ oh well I might as well finish it all off “, or “ it’s not worth saving this small amount of leftovers for another day” but you don’t want to throw it away “ food is expensive” so do that with every meal everyday… and before long you’ve put on the poundage and are wondering “ how u got there”… thx for your help
Great description on binging. I too try to offset the bad days with long distance runs. Something that helps me is recognizing when i've ordered too much and throw items in the trash. Money is already spent, but better for my body if it's gone.
I appreciate this a lot. I struggled and still sometimes struggle with binge eating. Glad to hear someone else has been through this. Coach Greg's meals have been killer for making those binges low calorie when they happen
Hello Mark. I stumbled upon your channel about a week ago and have been enjoying so much of your content. I am 56 and so much of what you’re presenting resonates with me. I am trying to create some habits that hopefully will lead me to being more fit and happily healthy. A bit like you, I changed careers to follow a heartfelt passion. I was an attorney for 26 years, and left that all behind about 4 years ago to focus on my guiding restorative yoga classes and guided meditation. I made the right decision with my vocation. I would like to complement this change with leaving behind long-established dietary choices and inconsistent (if not non-existent) fitness habits. So….all that to say, Thank you! I have been sharing your channel with a number of friends. Peace ✌🏽
I love the way you put these vids together and tell the story - great way to get the message across to us men (we love a story we can relate to).
I love the realness of this content. Probably one of the best fitness channels on the whole internet.
I took up cycling and endurance sports 12 years ago. Years of being thin and great fitness. Sruggling with my why now. Thank you for talking about this today. My dad had passed away recently and my cycling buddy is buying a mororcycle. 1 thing I know is that a good Zwift session cheers up the mood. I have a weird relationship with food. I am eating bad currently. Binging would probably describe it. Trying to stop now before i make big steps back. Thank you!
Thanks for this. As a man who has had a lifelong history of disordered eating this is helpful to hear. It isn't something that is talked about, and it is good to see that we are not alone. Psychotherapy has been the answer for me, but at 55 it is something to manage as I don't think "recovery" is possible. Trying to explain it to people can be a frustrating process. The "Stupid" "lazy" resonates. Using exercise as a way of mitigating and regulating is also something I do and have done, but now try and mitigate this to stop getting injured. The difficulty is that my (our) addiction is to a substance (food) which is essential to life. Really like all your podcasts. Cheers.
I really value this video. I don’t have any trouble with food but I’ve tried to help a few people because they thought I had the answer for them (I’ve always been lean). It’s so much more about psychology than most people understand.
This is so good and describes my situation perfectly. Even watched it at 11.20 at night eating peanut butter on toast and chocolate biscuits. It's made so much sense. Well done on a great subject.
Eating shreddies at 10:30pm and watching this. Fed up of the yoyo eating habits. Thanks for the realistic summary of these issues 👍
Some of the clearest, no bs, insightful advice on TH-cam. Excellent content.
Your description of compulsion is really great and helpful in conveying the reality to people that don't have whatever compulsion is being talked about. Another one I use sometimes is "Sit down in a chair for one hour without touching your face".
8:40 - This!
Binging explained to a 't' - I've been down this path as well.
I've run multiple marathons and tend to extremity when trying to fix an issue. In retrospect, I think I was trying to outrun a food addiction in the same way a lot of people try and out earn really poor spending discipline. That doesn't apply to all, but did to me.
Appreciate the real talk, Mark.
Big fan of the channel.
You continue to make a LOT of sense, Mark. Not only can I relate this to my binge eating but also my binge drinking. This video doesn’t excuse my poor drinking/eating habits but it does help me keep them in context of the bigger picture ie the many days of good nutrition, exercise and not drinking myself into mess.
Had some struggles with my own eating and this is pretty much the concept that I have taken to heart recently to try to make my health and weight change for the better. If I have a bad weekend, that's fine, but I still get up and workout on Monday and do what I can from there. The extra cookie or pizza Saturday night is not worth throwing my whole week away, recognize I stepped back a bit and then just keep going in the direction I intended.
Thanks for sharing that Mark, I can relate to so much of what you said, both in the past and in the present. I "peaked" at 127kg a few years ago, I've been down to 79kg and now I'm up at 95kg, working hard to get back into the 80's but as you know, it isn't easy.
I'm currently 120kg and heaviest I have ever been. Used to enjoy running but now concerned about damaging my knees.
Keep going
One of the best descriptions and most sensible approaches to binge eating I've come across. And it's been at least three weeks since I've inhaled a bag of licorice allsorts.
Thank you so very much for this! I have felt like this for 8 years. I’m lucky to be in a place like you where I exercise, not overweight but I get these exact urges once a week/fortnight. To look at you and hear this makes me feel so much better that not all is lost when these uncontrollable times happen. Thank you
I have never been diagnosed with BED, but I certainly recognize myself in some of the descriptions you use. I absolutely don’t have it figured out, but I’ve tried a few things that at least work sometimes. 1. Recognizing that, for me, some foods have no brakes (once I start, it is incredibly hard to stop) and trying to keep these food out of the house. It’s far easier for me to have no chocolate than just one chocolate. 2. Recognizing triggers (if I’m really sleepy, I’ll automatically reach for sweets and, because I’m so tired, I won’t have the willpower to stop). 3. Break into the cycle wherever I can (eating 3 servings of chocolate is bad, continuing to eat more is worse). This might be as simple as doing a chore like getting the mail or changing the laundry, or it might involve taking a bath ( which will force me out of the food environment).
Wow! Sure you have to have a disclaimer like yours in the beginning, that you are not a doctor etc. - but then you deliver something that imho is much more helpful to all the people who can relate to the described problem than any doctor out there. As one can see in the comments, this video is a great act of humanity. Thank you very much.
Fortunately, the only thing I’ve binged on lately have been your videos. Great presentation here as always. Thank you sir.
Along with binge eating, bipolar and epilepsy meds I ended up at 165kg... down 20kg now , it's nice hearing others who have really been at this brick wall and it being not easy to manage.
It’s nice to hear someone able to articulate this. I fluctuate every 12/18 months, being really fit and healthy at 80-85kg and then binge for 6 or so months until I get to 100-105kg before I pull my shit together. The binge period and subsequent struggle back is accompanied by frequent bouts of depression and self doubt. I find it impossible to explain to people how I feel when I’m struggling and often put on a goggins type mask.
I’m currently 98kg and working back down to my athletic weight, Iv not tried acceptance but maybe this time that is the key, along with preparation.
Too right on this one. Weekends for me are binges of 3-4k and Mon to Friday is just under maintenance. It hangs in the balance at the moment just need to fine tune a bit to loose weight. Just getting into your channel it's awesome and you're a very good communicater. I've started rowing this week and you've inspired me to get running too although slowly like you did when you started out.
I come back to this video every now and then when things go sideways, and II find it insightful. Thank you, Mark!
Fantastic explanation, Mark. I really like the polarisation of behaviour idea combined with the proactive response to the acceptance that there will be binges. Dealing with what you can do rather than wallowing in 'I've failed' is just so positive and, more importantly, productive. Thank you.
Love your work as always. What I appreciate most is where you've come from. Over my life from the UK, to South Africa where I grew up, to Australia, from boarding school, to the military, to a sedentary career in IT, my purely anecdotal experience is that Personal and Fitness Trainers all come from a background as a sporty kid. They simply can't relate, and whether consciously or unconsciously, judge the overweight, unfit lump as lazy, low in self-control, undisciplined.
Personally when I was at Boarding School at 7, you were punished if you didn't finish your food. As in caned. And punished psychologically if you didn't finish fast (last one clears the dishes). My family wasn't well off either, so there was a constant calculation as to how to get the most (food) for the least (money). In the Air Force, food was fuel. Again, quantity and speed were prioritised. So as an adult I found it almost impossibly difficult not to: order the largest meal on the menu (always the best value), or take the most my plate could hold; And eat it as quickly as possible, finishing (to my dog's disappointment) every last scrap. I'm not lazy, and I'd say not really stupid either. There are simply deep seated psychological triggers that drive my behaviour. And as you so eloquently put it, nothing is stopping the eating when it happens. I'm aware of the triggers, but have no more power over them than not breathing.
It's been a journey. I love your principles - certainly for maintaining weight. I'm still in the losing weight camp, and I find fasting is what works for me (I'm also not a doctor, nor nutritionist so don't take my advice and YMMV). I just find it easier to not eat than to reduce my plate size. I also choose to enjoy food when I am eating. I plan it. I socialise. I also know that I can't eat too much on the days I break my fast, because I'll be ill. And weighing myself every morning allows me to manage my eating over the day.
I’ve been waiting for this video for a long time. Awesome, I’ve been struggling with food binges for buns and chocolate, I’m sooo depressed with it.
Like others, I've struggled with this since I was a kid, sent it to my wife and parents. My mum in particular watched it and was shocked. Numerous times I've tried to explain and she's simply never understood why I eat like I do. Thank you.
Excellent work as always Mark. I see myself in this video and it's something I've struggled with all my life. I used to beat myself up for my lack of control, or for being weak. I severely restricted food until my hair started falling out and I was too tired to stand. I've eaten so much so often that I topped out close to 23 stone. I still battle daily. I can sail along for a month then end up in a car wreck of junk food and sugar. It's an addiction to a substance we must take in small doses daily. Learning to live with that reality and working to ring-fence these episodes is the only way forward.
This is a brilliant video. You have articulated your understanding and perspective so very well. The description of hidding in the bushes with a pair of binoculars and accepting , calmly, what you see while planning ahead is a great mind set.
Thanks Mark. You’ve helped one of those people. 👍🇨🇦
Thanks for this video Mark! I just recently found your channel (the Rowing video piqued my interest as a former rower myself it was fun watching you battle my nemesis the 2K )
I am a similar build to you (6’7” sitting around 250 lbs) and this video hit home. The frustration at being unable to keep myself from polishing off an entire box of my kids Oatmeal Cream pies, whole boxes of Oreos, a pizza and then a few too many beers and the dealing with the self hatred is something I’ve struggled with for a while. I was almost 300 lbs a couple of years ago but dropped down right before the pandemic but never got enough control on my CICO to get where I wanted to be.
I really appreciate your content and am excited to have a great resource and inspiration to watch. Keep it up and thanks for all the content!
I suffer with random uncontrollable eating which never makes sense to me, so I found this extremely enlightening
1. Pulling into Tesco on the way home from work to eat pastries in the car before getting home (all in secret). Often I don’t even realise I’ve made the choice to do it
2. Eating a grand Big Mac meal before getting home only to find we had ordered McDonald’s for dinner. Eating the second round without the family knowing and more alarming, not feeling it was a big issue
I now count calories using a app and everything is going really well, losing weight, running further and benching more. But I still get urges to binge and I thought it was just me. Thank you for posting this Mark, it’s made me feel a lot better 👍
Been there! When I was sent to pic up the McD's I would order an extra one to eat on the way home with it!
I really appreciate this! I’m in the process of trying to reach the next level in my weight loss. Diet has been the biggest thing so I appreciate that you’ve been through this and shared your input.
Another fantastic video, Mark - you specialise in giving me and others lightbulb moments of insight on what makes you tick and, in a lot of cases, make us tick too. This one really resonated for me personally.
Bless you again TH-cam man. I don’t like quoting segments but I spat out some food and laughed out loud when you said “I’d already eaten all the cake.” Bearing in mind that I’ve struggled with food for 20 years and I’m sat alone eating food that I arguably don’t need. But, I ran 15km for the first time today and I’ve just dipped below 100kg. I should have guessed that I was going to have a hard time with food after I was nicknamed the garbage disposal at a young age at family events 😢
Great relatable vid. My biggest downfall with binge-eating is the scenario where I've had a shocking night's eating and I start thinking, "Well I've f%$ked it now, might was well keep going since today's a write-off". I have strategies (alternative foods, mindfulness exercises) but often, the binge wins.
This is spot on. I'm at a point where I'm addressing this issue properly. Change is hard but it'll be worth it.
Acceptance. Self reflection is a good start ! Without self judgement or loathing.
Control.
Great perspectives…..
That actually made me a little weepy. It's the first time I've heard someone explain how I feel, without even knowing me. The compulsion is real, it's devastating and demoralizing. Thanks for articulating the circumstance of your condition.
Your comment about the last fry made me laugh. I have the same issue - brought up to clean the plate. My diet (keto/low carb) allows me to eat larger portions without putting on weight. I find that I can get back on track after a binge through intermittent fasting.
Great video. I have all of the symptoms of BED and I can relate to pretty much everything you said. People assume that as I’m only 80kg that I’m all good and I need to chill out. Little do they know I’m eating discounted pastries in a Co op car park at 10pm in secret. Another issue I find is that I’ll overeat on most days and when a genuine occasion arises, such a birthday or a celebration I hold back as I feel
I’m not “allowed” to enjoy myself. Brains are mad aren’t they!
ohhhh - I've done that. Family BBQ I'll have a bowl of salad - next day I'll have 4 McDonalds in the carpark at 11pm🤣
Hi Mark. Just wanted to say thanks for the content u are creating. I find your videos interesting, entertaining and motivational. A lot of what you say and do really resonates with me. I found your channel a couple of weeks ago and have been working through your back catalogue. I barely ever comment on videos, but felt compelled to on at least one of yours. I am pretty active and do a lot of what you make videos about, and it is great to see your approach. Thanks to you I did my first Park Run last weekend. And finished above average! All the best mate. Paul
Thanks Paul - ParkRun gets addictive! Next week, go a bit quicker 😂
Hi Mark. This is a superb video and very honest, which is where we need to be to to have any chance of succeeding. I have recently ( after many failed attempts over the past 2 years) put some steps in place to help with weight loss and my demons. I am T2 diabetic and 5 years ago lost a load of weight under NHS supervision. I was and still am very happy about that time in my life, unfortunately over the last 2 years I have gained half of my weight lost. I have tried many times to address this but, I have the breaking strain of a soggy Kit Kat😩So last week after a weekend chat with my wife, I saw my nurse and asked her for help. This is pivotal ( at least I think) to make my plan work so fingers crossed in a few months time I will be back to cycling, ultra marathons and, maybe even be able to swim.
Your videos are always balanced, funny and informative. Please keep up the good work, and good luck in yours, your wife's and Nixons future ventures 🤞👍
Just watched this video, made so much sence to me, I am a 41year old who weighs over 25st and got my first half marathon in 8 weeks and my whole life I have been eating just the way you described, just found your channel and loving the videos
41 - youngster! By the time you are mid 40's you can be anything you want! and half marathon is an awesome first step-good luck!
Thank you so much for sharing what works for you and the journey you've been on Mark. You're so brave (and your humour is spot on)! It definitely helps people who are thinking they're the only ones with similar struggles.
I'm in a very strange circumstance. I completely binge on junk (mostly in evenings but can be anytime I'm alone really) but appear healthy because I'm skinny. I know some people might think cool(!) but it's unhealthy and links to a whole cascade of other unhealthy habits that drag my mental health down. I don't purge by vomiting or exercise to stay thin - my genetics help me there (I'm 37 with 2 kids if that means anything). But being thin gives me almost less motivation to stop binging if that makes sense. Because I can get away with it more(?). I just run (inconsistently) to stay sane. But the lack of self control, the guilt and empty promises made around midnight I totally get. Have you (or anyone on here with similar struggles) ever considered it to be a form of self harm? I've never cut or physically harmed my body externally but if I'm shovelling unhealthy food in, surely that equates to self harm?
Well, here's to all the humans out there with struggles. Let's be kind to ourselves... and each other!
Just watched your Boris/body shaming/obesity video and saw you do view it as self harm. Btw, the video you reference in it where you "shame" your previous fat self was the first video of yours I watched and I'm hooked. Sent it to my hubby and we've got the same views. And sense of humor!
I understand the lack of motivation when you appear in shape. I found it easier in sole ways when I was bigger because it was an obvious (and embarrassing) reminder. I can now put on 20lbs and no one would even know….. so why not? 😁. Brain is a funny old thing!
@@AlexaPohl thanks signposting me to this other video. One of the things I love about Mark is the way he articulates issues that we all struggle with, and at the same time demonstrating that we can steer around the rocks of our own issues, by steering around his.
Thank you for this honesty. Like many others watching and commenting, I've gone through my own cycles of binging and purging. Hearing it from others is always so helpful. A few years back, I discovered a chap called David Clark and his book 'Out There'. He was an ultra runner who pulled himself back from the brink of death due to his alcohol and food consumption. Well worth a read. He has done a few Rich Roll podcasts too that are with a listen. Thanks again.
I resonate with this so much. Thank you for sharing your struggles and triumphs. It really helps.
knowing and accepting oneself is one of the amazing developments of aging into the wisdom. control is then part of the flow. excellent video, once again.
Ive never been able to properly communicate what this kind of binge feeling is to other people and this nails it.
You’re a legend Mark 😂
Thanks for this video. I am myself a runner and overweight and binge eat. Its time to do something about it. 👍
Mark it's largely inspirational to see how well adjusted you are to your above average lifestyle!
Mark! I can’t thank you enough for that.
I am 57 and apparently ‘successful’. I have struggled with binge eating exactly as you describe all my life.
I have never told anyone and just beat myself up instead. I can be fit and a good weight and in a good relationship etc. I’ve never been able to rationalise it.
It’s a revelation to hear a grown ‘sensible’ ) bloke like yourself talk about it so openly and honestly. Whatever else you do in life - you have done a great thing by recording this video.
I’ll try the acceptance, distance and going hard again! Hopefully without the long downward spiral.
PS I’ve never had strippers at any of the kids parties but will give that a go too !)
My kids highly recommend it 🤣 and glad you found the video useful 🙏
Thank you for your perspective. I recognize myself in the behaviors you mentioned. Binging is my biggest regret. I will try your tips. Thanks so much.
Hi Mark thanks for sharing, I've struggled with bingging, was alchol followed by anthing that didnt move in the kitchen, at that time I was sat around, literally sat around, 5Ft 10.5 (yes point 5 :) ) and 280lbs...Jan 2019. I managed to reduced the booze, then sarted on the food first goal was 224lbs took a year, biggest thing I learnt was to enjoy the training and to be kind to myself when things went wrong, when they did i'd getting back to enjoying the training ASAP, love zwift / cycling and a bit of park run/ gym. Now a little lighter, hovering (I wish ;) ) around 210lbs have struggled for a year as cant seem to get to new goal 199lbs, why 199lbs?? just sound good :) but front of mind I remember where I was and I am NOT going back there................. BIG THANKS for the videos and motivation, keep up the good work.
Already made some big improvements on those numbers. They are always going to get harder the closer you get where you want to be! Just keep after it. 💪
Thanks so much for all your clips, I can totally hear you describing myself, I lost ten stone 15 years ago and have given up being normal and just go wi the flow like you. Thanks again
This video is really important. We’re hard-wired to feast when food is plentiful to prepare for a famine. Problem is nowadays food is always plentiful - And the food industry knows this. Its almost impossible to fight it. Is it any surprise that the food industry hires psychologists ?
Great video !
Excellent perspective. You bare your burden honorably, keep striving to be your best. Great improvements have been made, great example for us watching.
I felt some of the parts of this video in my bones. I’ve got no control of my junk food bingeing really - if I’m left alone for a few hours I’ll always grab a ton of junk to eat. I will then think I need to make the money spent worth it, so will eat the way more than I want to. Maybe I’ll join you on your 12 week hardcore shred from the more recent video!
Story of my life, but like you I’ve mostly managed to keep up a high level of physical activity that tended to mask the problem. Then came older age and injuries - 10 years since last triathlon and the weight climbed and eating habits remained the same. Only had the mindset to face reality and reverse the scenario recently and it’s going well, but like many, I live with the occasional slip and plan forward. And I’ve stopped beating myself up for it (my wife does a better job of that than me anyhow 🤣).
Thanks for being open and honest, appreciate the reality in your vlogs 👍
Thank you mark, I’ve always struggled with compulsive and obsessive issues which compounded with gym. Just now recovering after a month of no gym because of COVID (plus binging) I’ve found myself reassessing my relationship with health and fitness. Jeff Nippards semi recent video about obesity reaffirms your statements on certain people just not understanding, not Jeff but the comments display that attitude that I believe scares people off from even trying to be healthy.
Thanks for this video…I’ve just had one of those days which is disheartening because I currently find myself in the position you were once in….300lbs and desperate to get away from that lifestyle….thanks to your videos and zwift I’m on the “road to recovery” and I know it’s a long way to go!
Thanks for the video. The emotional tie to food is real for many. I naturally reward myself with ice cream (sugary deserts) and pizza when working out. This is built into my psyche from years of weight cutting for wrestling. If I’m being honest it’s why I workout... Recent changes have helped me. Similar to The Rock’s cheat meals, I give myself 1-2 days per weeks where I indulge in pizza / ice cream, with no guilt. Limiting the times of eating per week, my body isn’t accustomed to the crap foods so I feel like shit. This feels like a step in the right direction. Overall goal is to rid this bad relationship with crap food, but I think it’s important to not feel so bad about yourself and let the process be just that a process. It takes time. Sharing for the community. Hope this helps.
Loved this - thank you again. Totally spot on about addiction whether food, booze or anything else. Even if others ‘don’t get it’ - who cares. It’s none of my business what others think of me. Great practical advice too. I am just recovering from an achilles injury after taking up running in January. No point jacking it all in (the running) because I am unable to right now. Four days into resting, using RICE recovery method and gentle stretching.. it’s driving me a bit mad and missing my runs but acceptance is my friend so getting on with it… most of the time. 😀😀