gaining 5 lbs-can't stop!

[Anonymous]

I just started working out again, and while I've been underweight due to medical reasons, I'm pretty happy at 135 (I'm 5"7'). But I've been slowly putting on weight, despite the fact that I've been working out 3x per week. I admit that I'm pretty good at watching my diet during the day, but in the evening I've been overeating. I don't drink alcohol, but I tend to snack on crackers etc. I know I should quit the snacking, but I'm so hungry! And it feels a little compulsive. Any good suggestions out there? How do I boost my willpower? And please, no flames for being at a decent weight. I'm just not comfortable when i am over 135.
TIA

[Anonymous]

It's probably weight for increased muscle mass from working out. I bet if you monitored your measurements you'll see that you aren't actually getting larger...just in better shape.

You probably need to increase your calories just a bit to maintain your increased metabolism. That's probably why you're so hungry all the time.

[Anonymous]

You may still be below your healthy weight. If you're eating nutritious snacks, getting the right amount of sleep and exercise, and you're still hungry, EAT. Ignore the number on the scale. Listen to your body.

[Anonymous]

Muscle does weigh more than fat. Are your pants any tighter than before? If so, you might need to cut out the snacking. If not, it is probably muscle weight. A tape measure is a good way to keep yourself honest, but a snug pair of pants is a little more convenient.

Remember to increase your water intake. Most Americans mistake thirst for hunger. Keep a water bottle around you at all times.

And don't buy your trigger foods, but only healthful snacks (apples & PB, carrots & hummus...). And when you have a snack, portion out a set amount on a plate, sit down and eat it at a table, not in front of the television or on the run. A lot of people also eat out of boredom.

And good for you for working out again!

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thank you for all your great advice and words of encouragement. My pants are indeed a bit tighter, so I need to snack more healthily. I'm going to try and eat an actual lunch, which may stave off the snacking later on in the day. Then if I keep working out, but maintain the 5lb gain, it will most likely be from increased muscle.

[Anonymous]

Brush your teeth in the evening so you aren't tempted to snack. I brush my teeth right after dinner and that keeps me from having a nighttime snack even while DH is eating a bowl of cereal or popcorn right in front of me!

[Anonymous]

Yes, eat lunch! And are you eating breakfast, too? That's super important.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Yes, eat lunch! And are you eating breakfast, too? That's super important.

I know - it's just that I'm not usually hungry then, and I have to force myself. The hunger comes later in the day. Weird, but I think it's my body readjusting to the regular intake of food.

[Anonymous]

Breakfast doesn't have to be big but its better to have mini meals over the course of the day to keep your blood sugar levels even. Even if you just have a banana, yogurt or bowl of fruits its much better to eat regularly - healthy selections than to bypass a meal all together. You are less likely to select healthy choices when you are starving.

[Anonymous]

eat more fiber at breakfast and lunch. edamame, celery, or kale chips are good evening snacks. avoid crackers and other processed carbohydrates.