Eating, Drinking, Overthinking

The “Toxic Triangle”

Like many women, Jill maintained stern control over her eating and drinking during the workweek. However, by Thursday night she was feeling plagued by frustration and a sense of inadequacy, and the cravings began to win. Over the weekend, she binged on sweet and fatty foods, and drank heavily at every opportunity. Monday morning she began the week feeling shame, guilt and failure, and once again resolved to control her eating and drinking.

Does Jill’s story sound familiar? If so, it is because this “toxic triangle” of binge eating, too much alcohol and self-flagellation has ensnared millions of women. At first you might overindulge just a little. That martini or those potato chips make you feel good temporarily. The more you reach for this kind of relief, however, the more destructive the cycle becomes. Yo-yo eating increases your risk of a variety of illnesses. Heavy drinking takes a toll on your body as well, and also threatens your career and your relationships within and outside your family. Depression and low self-esteem sap your ability to enjoy life, love and the people who matter most to you.

Women often respond to stress and difficulty...