I recently planned an exception day for my birthday. I basically took the day off of my protocol to enjoy dinner, drinks and dessert with friends to celebrate. Once I started eating I could not stop and ate everything in sight. I felt like I had to get it all in since I don’t regularly snack, eat sweets and drink and this was my one chance. I have had other days where I broke protocol because I had to try a piece of the legendary pie or a homemade cookie and sometimes this led to further binging and sometimes I was able to be done after a few tastes.. I am within a few pounds of my goal weight so I am not worried about weight but rather how how to deal with this intense almost animalistic way of eating or binging. It is easier for me to abstain than joy eat but I don’t want to be fearful of food or feel so out of control around it. Would love to hear your thoughts.