My journey with ADHD and food
TRIGGER WARNING of Disordered Eating and Binge eating.
For as long as I can remember, my biggest struggle with ADHD has always been surrounded by food. I never know what I want to eat, I often can’t decide what I am in the mood for, will I have the ingredients, how long will it take me to make something, and will it be satisfying? There have been way too many decisions and steps to take just to eat.
My journey with ADHD & food
When I worked in New York City, I would spend full lunch hours walking around lunch place after lunch place, just deciding, does any of this sound good to me? There are times that I would struggle so much that I’d just give up and not eat at all, even though I knew I was hungry. Not to mention, the times when I get so hyper-focused on what was in front of me that I would also forget to eat. I would get to the end of the day and realize I was starving and would binge on whatever was easily available. It is truly a vicious cycle.
I spent years working with a non-diet dietitian to help me with my relationship with food, which was very necessary. I learned to balance my plate with protein, fat, fiber, and carbs and find snacks and quick options that were safe foods and meals when I was stuck dealing with decision fatigue. It took a lot of practice and it’s still something I have to make an ongoing effort to manage. Some days are easier than others, but I always keep my favorite go-to snacks (check out this blog) around to help me.
As I move into a new phase of life, of becoming a parent, it has brought my struggle with food and decision fatigue front and center. I am really leaning into the principles I learned with my anti-diet dietician, which I want to share with you, in case it helps you on your food journey.
The principles I live by:
Eat balanced meals and snacks as often as I can
Don’t restrict yourself especially if you are craving something. EAT IT and maybe pair it with a protein when you can (or don’t). Otherwise, you will dance around it and never feel satisfied.
It’s ok if I’m not perfect every meal or every day
Leave room for fun treats
Make it easy, quick and convenient
Have as much fun as possible
What does this look like in reality? Here are some ideas:
Buy staples for the fridge: string cheese, hummus, and cut-up cucumbers are some of my go-tos
Buy staples for freezer: frozen broccoli or spinach, veggie burgers, chicken nuggets, meatballs and frozen pizzas are great and make life so much easier when you really just need something simple
Buy staples for the pantry: peanut butter, easy mac, popcorn and chocolate…lots and lots of chocolate when you need some simple salty/sweet options
Many people with ADHD struggle with disordered eating and eating disorders as you can read here in ADDitude Magazine. But I hope by me sharing my story I have helped you feel a little less alone. If you are looking for support for your disordered eating and/or binge eating disorder please know there is support available through the national eating disorder association hotline here.
