Published on 12, July, 2020
My relationship with food has always been terrible, even before I was diagnosed with autism.
I would eat very large plates of food as a child, and would pick off of other people's plates once they had finished. I loved sweets, so much so that when my mother started to hide the sweets, i would dig through the cupboards until i found them. I ate and drank things so fast that i would have frequent nausea. I never stopped mouthing, so any pen, pencil, lid or bottle cap would either be chewed to an unrecognisable clump of plastic or swallowed.
Even with the diagnosis, i haven't seemed to control myself. I know now that i mostly overeat because of a lack of mental stimulation and because of sensory input, but I can't change my diet no matter how hard I try.
However, i do worry that at the rate i am going, i could end up with diabetes.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I have an issue with food as I only eat a small number of foods. From you description, I get the sense of comfort eating, is this correct? I love Tony's chocolate but limit myself to the odd bar maybe once a week. Maybe this is an idea, not to restrict treats but in moderation and make this part of your routine. You mention lack of mental stimulation, would excercise help with this? I am thinking about getting out and burning off the calories and also stimulating your mind. Yes, it is hard at present with the many confusing rules but you can go out once a day. I am not an expert but simply suggesting what has helped me. Yes, I used to comfort eat a lot but then realised why I was doing it and worked on it.